Imphal, Jul 31: A delegation of three prominent Zomi organisations from Manipur’s Churachandpur district on Friday met Chief Minister Y Khemchand Singh, who assured them that the government would continue engaging with all stakeholders to achieve a peaceful, inclusive and lasting resolution to the ethnic conflict in the state.
The 14-member delegation, comprising representatives of the Zomi Council, Unified Zou Organisation (UZO) and Zomi Chiefs Association, met the chief minister at the secretariat in Imphal, according to an official statement.
The meeting assumes significance as it marked the first time representatives of the three organisations travelled together from Churachandpur to Imphal to meet the chief minister since ethnic violence broke out in the state in May 2023, reflecting improving law and order and the gradual restoration of free movement between communities, the statement said.
The Zomi are a conglomeration of several tribes, primarily based in Churachandpur district, and share ethnic and linguistic similarities with the Kuki community.
During the meeting, Singh reiterated that the government remains committed to promoting peace, fostering harmony among all communities and creating conditions for the restoration of normal life.
He assured the delegation that the government would continue dialogue with all stakeholders to secure a peaceful, inclusive and lasting solution to the prevailing situation.
The delegation apprised the chief minister of issues concerning Churachandpur district and assured him of its support for the government’s efforts to restore peace and normalcy in the state.
The representatives also discussed measures to strengthen mutual trust and understanding among different communities and submitted a proposal, seeking the construction of a multi-utility hall in Churachandpur.
Speaking to reporters, Zomi Council chairman Vumsuan Naulak described the interaction as positive.
“The Zomi Council is a conglomeration of eight tribes in Manipur. We came from Churachandpur (Lamka) to meet the chief minister regarding the ongoing developments in the district and to build mutual confidence. We had a healthy interaction. We are grateful that the state government is reaching out so that we can work together for the development of our people and for lasting peace,” he said.
Naulak expressed hope that peace would soon return to Manipur, enabling people from all communities to interact freely and work together for the state’s progress.
Zomi Council secretary (information and publicity) Mary Jones Vung said it was a “happy moment” to visit Imphal after nearly three years and expressed hope for healthier relations between the hill and valley communities.
Joseph Valte, son of former BJP MLA Vungzagin Valte, said the delegation had a fruitful interaction with the chief minister and looked forward to peace and prosperity returning to the state.(PTI)
