Manipur CM Khemchand Singh leads Ukhrul outreach, urges dialogue to bridge Kuki Tangkhul divide and restore lasting peace
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IMPHAL — In a bid to bridge the trust deficit between the Kuki and Tangkhul Naga communities, Manipur Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh on Friday visited several villages in Ukhrul district as part of a peace outreach initiative, calling for dialogue and coexistence.
Addressing villagers during the visit, the chief minister said that every community has both positive and negative elements, but ordinary citizens—especially children—aspire for peace and stability.
Underlining reconciliation, he urged communities to look beyond past grievances and work towards a harmonious future. During an emotional interaction at Thawai Kuki village, Singh said that he deeply felt the pain and anguish of the people. “There is no option other than dialogue for restoration of peace,” he said.
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On his maiden visit to Ukhrul after assuming office, the chief minister also visited Sharkaphung, a Tangkhul Naga village, where he received a warm welcome. Interacting with village leaders, he stressed that even major global conflicts had ended through dialogue, urging communities to resolve differences in a similar spirit. He called for initiating peace talks in a calm and conducive environment, cautioning that continued violence could jeopardise the future of younger generations.
He also suggested that local representatives take the lead in facilitating dialogue. Tensions between the Tangkhul Naga and Kuki communities escalated weeks after a violent clash at Litan Sareikhong along the Imphal–Ukhrul road in early February.
During the visit, Singh directed officials to examine the construction of a bridge at Sharkaphung and assured that the project would be taken up within the year.
He also visited Shangkai, Shokvao and Ramva villages, where residents raised concerns over potable water shortages and poor road conditions. The chief minister assured that these issues would be addressed on priority.
En route to Ukhrul, officials of the National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL) briefed him on the progress of the Imphal–Ukhrul–Jessami road project. He assured that challenges faced on the ground would be resolved in consultation with the chief secretary and authorities concerned.
At Ukhrul headquarters, the chief minister was received by the district administration, civil society organisations and village leaders. He, along with Deputy Chief Minister Losii Dikho, Tourism Minister Khuraijam Loken Singh and other officials, inspected preparations for the upcoming Shirui Lily Festival 2026.
Later, Singh laid the foundation stone for the Shirui Heritage Village and Bakshi Ground, describing the festival as a symbol of unity and harmony among communities.