Yumnam Khemchand : Steering the State towards peace
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Loukrakpam Herojit Mangang
Yumnam Khemchand Singh took oath as the 13th Chief Minister of Manipur on 4th February 2026. Assuming office while the unrest that began on 3rd May 2023 remains unresolved is akin to appointing a General in the midst of war. His elevation during such turbulent times suggests that he is no ordinary leader; it reflects the people’s as well as Central leader’s belief in his ability to navigate the crisis and restore stability.
Mr. Khemchand’s strength is witnessed just as a child’s nature can be sensed from the cradle. For the first time since the turmoil of 3rd May, two Kuki-Zo MLAs LMKhaute and Ngursanglur Sanate arrived in Imphal and attended the swearing-in ceremony at Lok Bhavan. In addition, Nemcha Kipgen, another Kuki-Zo MLA took oath as Deputy Chief Minister virtually. Losii Dikho, a Naga MLA, 2 Meetei MLAs Govindas Konthou-jam, and Khuraijam Loken Singh, were also sworn in as Deputy Chief Minister and Ministers, respectively. This marks the beginning of legislative reconciliation and togetherness between the Meetei, Kuki-Zo and Naga communities after nearly three years of violence in the State.
Mr Khemchand said after taking the oath that the presence of elected representatives from two communities at the swearing-in ceremony has reinforced the belief that peace and normalcy can be restored in Manipur. He further stated that Manipur is a State inhabited and protected by 36 different communities. His words are not merely a statement; it reflects reality. The first and most important task of his Government is the restoration of peace and normalcy, as well as the protection of the State. This can be achieved with the support of representatives as well as community leaders who can engage in dialogue and convince the people. This may be one of the reasons behind the election of two Deputy Chief Ministers and Ministers from different communities.
From a democratic and procedural perspective, questions have arisen about whether Mr Khemchand’s appointment as Chief Minister and the formation of his Council of Ministers contradict established electoral norms. Although it may appear that the BJP National leadership influenced the election, the process was conducted in full compliance with constitutional and legal provi- sions. Moreover, it is natural for National leaders to advise the election of competent leaders as Chief Minister and Ministers in order to resolve the violence and restore peace and normalcy in the State. It is worth mentioning that such guidance is in the best interest of the people of Mani- pur.
Mr Khemchand visited the Kuki-inhabited village of Sareikhong in Litan before assuming office as Chief Minister. Notably, he was the first MLA from the Meetei community to visit the area after the violence that erupted in Manipur on 3rd May, 2023. During his visit, he met internally displaced persons (IDPs) from the Kuki-Zo community in relief camps and listened to their grievances.
He stated that the purpose of his visit was to foster mutual understanding between the people of the valley and the hills, and to promote peaceful coexistence and equitable develop- ment across both regions. The IDPs, who had endured significant hardship, expressed their desire to return to their homes. His visit played a meaningful role in building trust between the communities and contributed to ongoing efforts to restore peace and normalcy in the State.
The 7th Session of the 12th Manipur Legislative Assembly was convened promptly, just a day after the swearing-in ceremony. A notable development during this phase was the virtual participation of three Kuki-Zo MLAs, marking it the first time since the outbreak of violence on 3rd May that members of the Kuki-Zo community took part in Assembly proceedings. The session was resumed on 9th March, during which significant progress was observed. The Assembly witnessed in-depth discussions on a range of critical State issues, including the ongoing crisis, with the participation of MLAs from diverse communities. Notably, six out of the nine Kuki-Zo MLAs attended the session, marking an important positive step in the context of the ongoing crisis.
The presence and participation of representatives from the Meetei, Pangal, Kuki, Naga, and other communities underscored a collective commitment to dialogue and cooperation. This inclusive engagement reflects a meaningful step toward administrative stability, peace, and unity in the State. During the session, CM Khemchand urged members from both ruling and Opposition benches to cooperate in bridging the trust deficit among communities affected by the conflict. He also appreciated the Opposition for supporting the Government’s efforts instead of resorting to blame. Former CM, O Ibobi Singh appealed to all communities to avoid actions that could threaten the State’s integrity. These developments suggest a significant improvement in the situation under Mr Khemchand’s leadership.
Chief Minister Khem-chand arranged the airlifting of Kuki-Zo MLA Vung-zagin Valte, to New Delhi for medical treatment. He arranged a medical team and transported him to Imphal airport, where Meetei MLAs Tongbram Robindro Singh and Sana-sam Premchandra Singh received and accompanied him to the airport. The Chief Minister personally received him at the airport and wished him a speedy recovery. Mr Valte expressed hope that he would return after regaining his health. This gesture reflected compassion and solidarity among leaders across communities. It also helped ease the pain and distress of Mr Valte, his family, and his community. Though he later passed away, his hope for unity in Manipur remains a lasting inspiration.
Chief Minister Khem-chand visited Jiribam and met representatives from both the Hmar and Meetei communities, conveying a message of peace and the restoration of normalcy in the State. He also interacted with IDPs from both communities in various relief camps.
During the visit, he instructed the district administration to address their grievances immediately and assured them that the Government would intensify efforts toward their resettlement and rehabilitation.
The Chief Minister underscored the need to rebuild the spirit and identity of being “Manipuri.” He urged the people to move beyond the painful past, stating, “Let us consider the last two years as a nightmare. Let us forget it and have the courage to move forward towards peace and development.” He added that he had come to Jiribam with a message of peaceful co-existence. His visit brought some consolation to the distressed and angry people of both communities and is expected to contribute to restoring peace and normalcy in the State through mutual understanding and peaceful co- existence.
Some MLAs from the Kuki-Zo community who were earlier silent have begun expressing more positive views, while others who once opposed the then Government and supported the demand for Separate Administration have remained quiet after the formation of the Khem-chand-led Government. Deputy Chief Minister Nemcha Kipgen stated that unity is absolutely essential. She emphasized that she does not believe in dividing people along narrow lines and that integration is the only way forward for effective governance and lasting peace. MLA Ngursanglur Sanate also emphasized that solutions must be pursued through dialogue at the table, not guns.
Meanwhile, Deputy Chief Minister Losii Dikho, a Naga representative, also urged people to unite and not waste time in conflict. He emphasized that peace is the only path to progress and development in the State. It is evident that most MLAs, from both the ruling and Opposition benches and across different communities, are joining hands to restore peace and normalcy. This marks a significant step forward on the path to peace.
Deputy Chief Minister Losii Dikho announced that a Cabinet meeting will be held at Senapati and CM Khemchand will attend the meeting going by road through Kangpokpi on National Highaway-2. Sources said that Central Government, Manipur Govern- ment, SoO groups and non SoO groups have been working to ensure free movement of all communities on NH-2 (Imphal- Dimapur Road).
The second Cabinet meeting of the Khemchand Government decided to distribute Central financial support to IDPs and accelerate resettlement and rehabilitation. It also resolved to form MLA teams to assess and assist IDPs in both hills and valley. The meeting further reviewed the State’s prevailing law and order situation in detail.
The Chief Minister interacted with IDPs from both the Meetei and Kuki-Zo communities, listening to their grievances during a programme for the distribution of benefits through Direct Benefit Transfer amounting to around Rs 33 crore. IDPs from Nghamun Relief Camp, represented by Deputy Chief Minister NemchaKipgen; Torbung Prefa-bricated Camp, represented by MLA Letzamang Haokip; Sadhbhav Mandap, Khominthang, represented by MLA L. M. Khaute; and Sadhbhav Mandap, Tui-bong, represented by MLA Paolienlal Haokip, joined the programme virtually.
This marked the first occasion since the outbreak of the crisis that representatives and IDPs from both communities participated in a common programme.
The Chief Minister appealed to civil society organisations from both sides to help bridge the trust deficit. He made every possible effort to restore peace and normalcy in the state, leaving no stone unturned in seeking a solution that would not harm any community. As a result, both communities have begun to cooperate to some extent, marking an encouraging beginning to the success of his efforts.
The Chief Minister also met representatives of the Kuki-Zo Council in Guwahati, describing the meeting as the first concrete step toward rebuilding trust among ethnic communities after nearly three years of unrest. The KZC noted that the Chief Minister listened attentively to issues raised, including the need to prevent escalating tensions between the Kuki and Tangkhul communities, ensure justice for victims of the conflict, and expedite the Suspension of Operations (SoO) talks. Although no formal resolution was passed and no agreement was signed, the meeting marked a positive and meaningful beginning to the peace process.
The Government has been actively working to control the violence in the Litan area and contain the conflict between the Kuki and Tangkhul communities through a combination of administrative, security, and political measures. In critical situations, authorities— often in coordination with Central agencies—have intervened swiftly to control the situation and prevent retaliatory violence; notably, 21 abducted Naga civilians were freed following such efforts.
However, the killing of two Kuki individuals remains a tragic setback, and the Government has assured that the case will be handed over to the NIA and that steps will be taken to prevent such incidents in the future.
Simultaneously, dialogue has been initiated with civil society organisations and community leaders, with multiple rounds of discussions held to promote understanding and de-escalation. Chief Minister Khemchand has consistently emphasized dialogue as essential to bridging trust deficits, reflecting a determined effort to restore peace and stability in the region.
Khemchand and his Council of Ministers met President Droupadi Murmu and key Central leaders, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and several Union Ministers.
They discussed the prevailing situation in the state, explored solutions to the ongoing crisis, and sought support for development across sectors. These interactions are expected to strengthen cooperation between the Central and State Governments, enabling better governance, faster deve- lopment, and more effective management of the crisis.
The Chief Minister accompanied by seven MLAs, once again visited Jiribam—this time by road, an unprecedented move in nearly 2 decades by a sitting Chief Minister of Manipur. At Alipur, he attended a community interaction programme involving Meetei, Kuki, Hmar, Paite, and Rongmei groups.
Significantly, this marked the first time in almost three years of ethnic unrest that Meetei and Kuki-Zo communities came together to openly discuss their concerns. This interaction reflects a renewed spirit of dialogue, mutual understanding, and coexistence among previously divided communities. It signals a gradual return to peace and normalcy in the state. The event highlights the effectiveness of Mr. Khemchand’s inclusive outreach and the government’s focus on reconciliation and grassroots engagement. The leadership demonstrated by the Government deserves appreciation for prioritizing unity and dialogue. These continued efforts to rebuild trust and address grievances are laying a strong foundation for lasting peace and a more stable, prosperous Manipur.
Chief Minister Khemchand has demonstrated strong outreach during his first two months in office and has begun taking concrete actions accordingly. Efforts toward the rehabilitation and resettlement of internally displaced persons (IDPs) have been initiated. Incidents of hate speech among ethnic communities such as the Kuki, Naga, and Meetei have decreased considerably. Dialogue for reconci- liation has started after nearly three years of unrest in the State.
At the same time, joint legislative and administrative efforts toward reconciliation have begun to take shape. These developments offer hope that peace, normalcy, and unity will soon be restored in the state of Manipur.
The writer is an Advocate
Yumnam Khemchand Singh took oath as the 13th Chief Minister of Manipur on 4th February 2026. Assuming office while the unrest that began on 3rd May 2023 remains unresolved is akin to appointing a General in the midst of war. His elevation during such turbulent times suggests that he is no ordinary leader; it reflects the people’s as well as Central leader’s belief in his ability to navigate the crisis and restore stability.
Mr. Khemchand’s strength is witnessed just as a child’s nature can be sensed from the cradle. For the first time since the turmoil of 3rd May, two Kuki-Zo MLAs LMKhaute and Ngursanglur Sanate arrived in Imphal and attended the swearing-in ceremony at Lok Bhavan. In addition, Nemcha Kipgen, another Kuki-Zo MLA took oath as Deputy Chief Minister virtually. Losii Dikho, a Naga MLA, 2 Meetei MLAs Govindas Konthou-jam, and Khuraijam Loken Singh, were also sworn in as Deputy Chief Minister and Ministers, respectively. This marks the beginning of legislative reconciliation and togetherness between the Meetei, Kuki-Zo and Naga communities after nearly three years of violence in the State.
Mr Khemchand said after taking the oath that the presence of elected representatives from two communities at the swearing-in ceremony has reinforced the belief that peace and normalcy can be restored in Manipur. He further stated that Manipur is a State inhabited and protected by 36 different communities. His words are not merely a statement; it reflects reality. The first and most important task of his Government is the restoration of peace and normalcy, as well as the protection of the State. This can be achieved with the support of representatives as well as community leaders who can engage in dialogue and convince the people. This may be one of the reasons behind the election of two Deputy Chief Ministers and Ministers from different communities.
From a democratic and procedural perspective, questions have arisen about whether Mr Khemchand’s appointment as Chief Minister and the formation of his Council of Ministers contradict established electoral norms. Although it may appear that the BJP National leadership influenced the election, the process was conducted in full compliance with constitutional and legal provi- sions. Moreover, it is natural for National leaders to advise the election of competent leaders as Chief Minister and Ministers in order to resolve the violence and restore peace and normalcy in the State. It is worth mentioning that such guidance is in the best interest of the people of Mani- pur.
Mr Khemchand visited the Kuki-inhabited village of Sareikhong in Litan before assuming office as Chief Minister. Notably, he was the first MLA from the Meetei community to visit the area after the violence that erupted in Manipur on 3rd May, 2023. During his visit, he met internally displaced persons (IDPs) from the Kuki-Zo community in relief camps and listened to their grievances.
He stated that the purpose of his visit was to foster mutual understanding between the people of the valley and the hills, and to promote peaceful coexistence and equitable develop- ment across both regions. The IDPs, who had endured significant hardship, expressed their desire to return to their homes. His visit played a meaningful role in building trust between the communities and contributed to ongoing efforts to restore peace and normalcy in the State.
The 7th Session of the 12th Manipur Legislative Assembly was convened promptly, just a day after the swearing-in ceremony. A notable development during this phase was the virtual participation of three Kuki-Zo MLAs, marking it the first time since the outbreak of violence on 3rd May that members of the Kuki-Zo community took part in Assembly proceedings. The session was resumed on 9th March, during which significant progress was observed. The Assembly witnessed in-depth discussions on a range of critical State issues, including the ongoing crisis, with the participation of MLAs from diverse communities. Notably, six out of the nine Kuki-Zo MLAs attended the session, marking an important positive step in the context of the ongoing crisis.
The presence and participation of representatives from the Meetei, Pangal, Kuki, Naga, and other communities underscored a collective commitment to dialogue and cooperation. This inclusive engagement reflects a meaningful step toward administrative stability, peace, and unity in the State. During the session, CM Khemchand urged members from both ruling and Opposition benches to cooperate in bridging the trust deficit among communities affected by the conflict. He also appreciated the Opposition for supporting the Government’s efforts instead of resorting to blame. Former CM, O Ibobi Singh appealed to all communities to avoid actions that could threaten the State’s integrity. These developments suggest a significant improvement in the situation under Mr Khemchand’s leadership.
Chief Minister Khem-chand arranged the airlifting of Kuki-Zo MLA Vung-zagin Valte, to New Delhi for medical treatment. He arranged a medical team and transported him to Imphal airport, where Meetei MLAs Tongbram Robindro Singh and Sana-sam Premchandra Singh received and accompanied him to the airport. The Chief Minister personally received him at the airport and wished him a speedy recovery. Mr Valte expressed hope that he would return after regaining his health. This gesture reflected compassion and solidarity among leaders across communities. It also helped ease the pain and distress of Mr Valte, his family, and his community. Though he later passed away, his hope for unity in Manipur remains a lasting inspiration.
Chief Minister Khem-chand visited Jiribam and met representatives from both the Hmar and Meetei communities, conveying a message of peace and the restoration of normalcy in the State. He also interacted with IDPs from both communities in various relief camps.
During the visit, he instructed the district administration to address their grievances immediately and assured them that the Government would intensify efforts toward their resettlement and rehabilitation.
The Chief Minister underscored the need to rebuild the spirit and identity of being “Manipuri.” He urged the people to move beyond the painful past, stating, “Let us consider the last two years as a nightmare. Let us forget it and have the courage to move forward towards peace and development.” He added that he had come to Jiribam with a message of peaceful co-existence. His visit brought some consolation to the distressed and angry people of both communities and is expected to contribute to restoring peace and normalcy in the State through mutual understanding and peaceful co- existence.
Some MLAs from the Kuki-Zo community who were earlier silent have begun expressing more positive views, while others who once opposed the then Government and supported the demand for Separate Administration have remained quiet after the formation of the Khem-chand-led Government. Deputy Chief Minister Nemcha Kipgen stated that unity is absolutely essential. She emphasized that she does not believe in dividing people along narrow lines and that integration is the only way forward for effective governance and lasting peace. MLA Ngursanglur Sanate also emphasized that solutions must be pursued through dialogue at the table, not guns.
Meanwhile, Deputy Chief Minister Losii Dikho, a Naga representative, also urged people to unite and not waste time in conflict. He emphasized that peace is the only path to progress and development in the State. It is evident that most MLAs, from both the ruling and Opposition benches and across different communities, are joining hands to restore peace and normalcy. This marks a significant step forward on the path to peace.
Deputy Chief Minister Losii Dikho announced that a Cabinet meeting will be held at Senapati and CM Khemchand will attend the meeting going by road through Kangpokpi on National Highaway-2. Sources said that Central Government, Manipur Govern- ment, SoO groups and non SoO groups have been working to ensure free movement of all communities on NH-2 (Imphal- Dimapur Road).
The second Cabinet meeting of the Khemchand Government decided to distribute Central financial support to IDPs and accelerate resettlement and rehabilitation. It also resolved to form MLA teams to assess and assist IDPs in both hills and valley. The meeting further reviewed the State’s prevailing law and order situation in detail.
The Chief Minister interacted with IDPs from both the Meetei and Kuki-Zo communities, listening to their grievances during a programme for the distribution of benefits through Direct Benefit Transfer amounting to around Rs 33 crore. IDPs from Nghamun Relief Camp, represented by Deputy Chief Minister NemchaKipgen; Torbung Prefa-bricated Camp, represented by MLA Letzamang Haokip; Sadhbhav Mandap, Khominthang, represented by MLA L. M. Khaute; and Sadhbhav Mandap, Tui-bong, represented by MLA Paolienlal Haokip, joined the programme virtually.
This marked the first occasion since the outbreak of the crisis that representatives and IDPs from both communities participated in a common programme.
The Chief Minister appealed to civil society organisations from both sides to help bridge the trust deficit. He made every possible effort to restore peace and normalcy in the state, leaving no stone unturned in seeking a solution that would not harm any community. As a result, both communities have begun to cooperate to some extent, marking an encouraging beginning to the success of his efforts.
The Chief Minister also met representatives of the Kuki-Zo Council in Guwahati, describing the meeting as the first concrete step toward rebuilding trust among ethnic communities after nearly three years of unrest. The KZC noted that the Chief Minister listened attentively to issues raised, including the need to prevent escalating tensions between the Kuki and Tangkhul communities, ensure justice for victims of the conflict, and expedite the Suspension of Operations (SoO) talks. Although no formal resolution was passed and no agreement was signed, the meeting marked a positive and meaningful beginning to the peace process.
The Government has been actively working to control the violence in the Litan area and contain the conflict between the Kuki and Tangkhul communities through a combination of administrative, security, and political measures. In critical situations, authorities— often in coordination with Central agencies—have intervened swiftly to control the situation and prevent retaliatory violence; notably, 21 abducted Naga civilians were freed following such efforts.
However, the killing of two Kuki individuals remains a tragic setback, and the Government has assured that the case will be handed over to the NIA and that steps will be taken to prevent such incidents in the future.
Simultaneously, dialogue has been initiated with civil society organisations and community leaders, with multiple rounds of discussions held to promote understanding and de-escalation. Chief Minister Khemchand has consistently emphasized dialogue as essential to bridging trust deficits, reflecting a determined effort to restore peace and stability in the region.
Khemchand and his Council of Ministers met President Droupadi Murmu and key Central leaders, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and several Union Ministers.
They discussed the prevailing situation in the state, explored solutions to the ongoing crisis, and sought support for development across sectors. These interactions are expected to strengthen cooperation between the Central and State Governments, enabling better governance, faster deve- lopment, and more effective management of the crisis.
The Chief Minister accompanied by seven MLAs, once again visited Jiribam—this time by road, an unprecedented move in nearly 2 decades by a sitting Chief Minister of Manipur. At Alipur, he attended a community interaction programme involving Meetei, Kuki, Hmar, Paite, and Rongmei groups.
Significantly, this marked the first time in almost three years of ethnic unrest that Meetei and Kuki-Zo communities came together to openly discuss their concerns. This interaction reflects a renewed spirit of dialogue, mutual understanding, and coexistence among previously divided communities. It signals a gradual return to peace and normalcy in the state. The event highlights the effectiveness of Mr. Khemchand’s inclusive outreach and the government’s focus on reconciliation and grassroots engagement. The leadership demonstrated by the Government deserves appreciation for prioritizing unity and dialogue. These continued efforts to rebuild trust and address grievances are laying a strong foundation for lasting peace and a more stable, prosperous Manipur.
Chief Minister Khemchand has demonstrated strong outreach during his first two months in office and has begun taking concrete actions accordingly. Efforts toward the rehabilitation and resettlement of internally displaced persons (IDPs) have been initiated. Incidents of hate speech among ethnic communities such as the Kuki, Naga, and Meetei have decreased considerably. Dialogue for reconci- liation has started after nearly three years of unrest in the State.
At the same time, joint legislative and administrative efforts toward reconciliation have begun to take shape. These developments offer hope that peace, normalcy, and unity will soon be restored in the state of Manipur.
The writer is an Advocate