Manipur CM Seeks Support from Naga Bodies in Senapati to Restore Peace in the State

IMPHAL: Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh on Wednesday sought support from Naga bodies in Senapati district to help restore peace in the violence-hit northeastern state and asserted that his government was working hard to bring unity among communities.    

Speaking at a cultural event—Robvena Ni—in Punanamei village, Singh said Manipur has been facing "hardship in the last 19 months, and the situation is improving gradually by God's grace."    

"The role of the people of Senapati District is huge. The role of the Naga Peoples' Organisation, Senapati District Students' Association, United Naga Council Headquarters, and other civic societies is huge in protecting the unity and integrity of the state and strengthening the indigenous communities of Manipur," the chief minister said.     

The chief minister asserted that it would be "difficult to establish a united Manipur without equal development and mutual respect" among the people of the hills and the valley.        

"We have some 34 recognized tribes, of which 24 or 25 are indigenous. Some individuals are long-term settlers, but they are not considered indigenous. For the welfare and unity of all these tribes, the Sangai Ethnic Park, to showcase the culture of each tribe, was established by the government. We tried hard for the unity of all," Singh said.

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