Collective efforts needed for peace : CM

By Our Staff Reporter
IMPHAL, Jun 17: Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh today spoke on the importance of restoring lasting peace and normalcy in the State while sharing his recent experiences from visits to conflict-affected areas.
At the 8th foundation day celebration of the Chinga-makha Nambul Mapal Development Committee (CNMDC) at Chingamakha Yanglem Leikai Nambul Mapal, Imphal, the Chief Minister stressed that collective efforts are needed to bring about lasting peace.
The Chief Minister, speaking at the gathering, recalled his recent visits to Jiribam, Kangpokpi, Senapati and Ukhrul.
During the visit, Khemchand said he witnessed encouraging signs of reconciliation among different communities.
He said Kuki, Paite, Hmar and Meitei communities in Jiribam had "resumed living together peacefully, sharing meals and returning to their homes." He himself had lunch with members of the different communities, he said.
However, the Chief Minister, with concern, expressed that a bomb blast at Tronglaobi in April which claimed the lives of two children caused the situation to deteriorate once again.
The Government is making every effort to restore normalcy, lasting peace, but it requires the cooperation of all sections of the society, he said.
He observed that a few people are continuing to oppose the peace process because they are benefiting from the conflict. Such people with vested interests must be exposed and the people should work collectively towards restoring normalcy, he added.
During the programme, the Chief Minister distributed cash prizes and certi- ficates to meritorious students who have cleared Class X and XII examinations. He also urged the residents of Chingamakha Yanglem Leikai Nambul Mapal to maintain cleanliness in the locality through active community participation.
Dr Sanasam Shantikumar Singh, president, CNMDC; Thokchom Eliza Devi, Caretaker Councillor, Ward No 16; residents of Chinga-makha Yanglem Leikai Nambul Mapal attended the function.