CM reaffirms dialogue as the only path to lasting peace

By Our Staff Reporter
Imphal, Jul 4 : Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh on Saturday reiterated that dialogue is the only viable path to restoring lasting peace in Manipur, emphasizing that peace is indispensable for the State's progress and development.
Speaking at the 5th foundation day celebration of ELITE TV, a local television channel, held in Imphal, the Chief Minister referred to his visit to Churachandpur earlier in the day.
He said he was encouraged to see that the district was no longer experiencing the disruptions witnessed during the peak of the crisis.
Reaffirming his commitment to peaceful resolution, he recalled an interaction with media personnel in Churachandpur, where a smiling reporter asked him about the roadmap to peace.
"I replied, 'Your smile is the roadmap to peace,'" the Chief Minister said, underscoring the importance of trust, hope, and dialogue in rebuilding harmony.
Stressing that development cannot take place without peace, he said the people of Manipur are eager to see an end to the prolonged crisis and move forward together.
However, he observed that a few individuals continue to benefit from the prevailing unrest and therefore have no interest in the restoration of peace.
The Chief Minister urged the public not to allow such vested interests to derail collective efforts aimed at restoring normalcy and ensuring the State's progress.
He also warned that those attempting to disrupt peace would soon be identified and appropriate action would be taken against them.
Highlighting the impact of the conflict, the Chief Minister said the prolonged crisis has severely affected the State's economy and Government revenue.
He noted that the younger generation, economically weaker sections, and daily wage earners have borne the brunt of the unrest.
Students, too, have faced significant hardships due to the prolonged instability, he added.
The function was also attended by Thangmeiband AC MLA Khumukcham Joykisan Singh, Director of Information and Public Relations Th Charanjeet, and ELITE TV Editor Jit Ningomba.
Media professionals, civil society representatives, Government officials, and well-wishers were also present at the event.