Efforts to restore stability and mutual trust in Manipur have taken a creative turn, with Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh reaching out to the state's artistic community. Speaking at a special gathering organized at his official residence in Babupara, Imphal, the Chief Minister emphasized that creative forms of expression hold immense potential to heal social rifts, mend broken bonds, and foster peaceful coexistence among warring groups.
Expanding Conflict and the Call for Leadership from the Majority
Reflecting on the ongoing crisis, the Chief Minister noted with concern that what began as a friction between two communities has unfortunately expanded into a complex tri-community conflict. To break the deadlock, he appealed directly to the Meitei community to assume the protective role of a big brother and big sister, taking proactive leadership in initiating dialogue and resolving the underlying grievances.
Past Rescue Incident Highlights Ethics of Community Relations
Revisiting his previous tenure as a Cabinet minister during the onset of violence, Khemchand shared a pivotal memory involving the rescue of nearly 120 Meitei labourers stranded in Churachandpur district. He recalled contacting Henglep MLA Letzamang Haokip for intervention, who promptly ensured their safety and passage. Khemchand pointed to this gesture as proof that holding an entire community accountable for the destructive actions of a few individuals is fundamentally unethical.
Citing Jiribam as a Model and Supporting the NRC Demand
Underlining the necessity of erasing mental and physical boundaries created by recent events, the Chief Minister highlighted Jiribam district as a successful model where normalcy has returned and diverse groups live together without fear or mistrust. Furthermore, Khemchand backed the implementation of the National Register of Citizens (NRC) within Manipur, expressing gratitude to the gathered artistes for raising this critical issue with the administration.
Grassroots Outreach, Cultural Productions, and Security Demands
Organized by Art and Culture Minister Khuraijam Loken Singh, the meeting saw active participation from prominent figures. Theatre veteran Shougrakpam Hemanta suggested reviving traditional community bonds through a dedicated Shumang Leela production titled 'Ei Manipuri Ni' (I am Manipuri). Actor Gokul Athokpam expressed readiness to travel along National Highway 2 to engage directly with local populations, requesting government security cover and subsidized performance rates to facilitate these cultural missions.
Promoting Shared Identity and Youth Engagement Through Digital Platforms
Tangkhul Naga folk singer Guru Rewben Mashangva stressed that unity becomes achievable once all artistes set aside ethnic divides and embrace their common identity as Manipuris. Musician Konthoujam Bobin echoed calls for solid solidarity among creators, while actress Chanam Lilabati urged the strategic use of social media to steer young people toward peace and reconciliation. The interactive session concluded in the presence of Art and Culture Secretary Naorem Praveen Singh and Media Advisor Oinam Sunil Singh.
