Manipur: Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla Stresses Peace, Engages with Kuki-Zo Leaders and Displaced Persons

IMPHAL: Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla emphasized the importance of peace before seeking a solution, while Kuki civil society organizations have demanded a separate Union Territory as a prerequisite for lasting peace in Manipur.

During his first visit to Churachandpur district since assuming office as Governor, AK Bhalla appealed to Kuki-Zo civil society organizations to prioritize peace. The Governor visited Churachandpur and Bishnupur districts today, engaging with internally displaced persons at several relief camps.

During his morning visit to Churachandpur district headquarters, the Governor inaugurated a newly constructed IT Centre at Churachandpur College and later convened a meeting with various civil society organizations at the Deputy Commissioner's office.

Representatives from several civil society organizations attended the meeting at the DC's office, where the Kuki-Zo Council submitted a memorandum to the Governor addressing issues related to the ongoing conflict in the State. During the discussion, the Governor emphasized that "peace must come first and then solution."

He urged the leaders of the CSOs to collaborate with the administration in peace-building efforts. The Kuki-Zo Council, however, firmly stated that "political talk should be expedited with SoO groups and a Separate Administration-Union Territory with legislature for the Kuki-Zo people be granted under Article 239 (A) of the Indian Constitution for peace to prevail."

In a statement released to the media, the Kuki-Zo Council (KZC) said its memorandum to the Governor emphasized the need for "re-demarcation" of district police jurisdiction, the deployment of a neutral Central security force, and the "need for maintaining the sanctity of the buffer zones."

The KZC added, "The Governor promised that the Central Government will maintain neutrality in maintaining law and order." In Churachandpur, Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla visited the Sadhbhavna Mandap Relief Camp, where he interacted with the internally displaced persons and distributed relief materials. On his return to Imphal, the Governor also stopped at the Chingnu Thangjing Guest House Relief Camp in Moirang, Bishnupur district.

ALSO READ: Nagaland's Second English News Daily "Nagaland Page" Bids Farewell After 25 Years Run

ASLO WATCH: