India: Manipur Chief Minister Urges Church, Students to Promote Peace Amid Hill District Unrest

Manipur Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh has urged Catholic Church leaders, teachers and students to promote peace and harmony in the state’s hill districts, where unrest continues, while inaugurating the Catholic Valley Schools’ Sports and Literary Meet at Catholic School in Canchipur, Imphal, on October 19.

Addressing the gathering as chief guest, Singh said student life lays the foundation for the future by shaping character, aspirations and life goals. He described the event’s theme, “Together for a Peaceful Manipur,” as meaningful and relevant to the state’s present situation.

Acknowledging continued unrest in some hill areas, the chief minister called on Church leaders, educators and students to spread messages of peace and harmony, particularly among communities affected by the conflict.

He emphasized that collective efforts are essential to restore peace and strengthen mutual understanding among different communities.

Singh said students have been among those most affected by the conflict, with academic activities disrupted by bandhs and blockades. Such disruptions, he added, have also caused hardship for daily wage earners and others who depend on their daily income for survival.

The chief minister stressed that Manipur must progress alongside the rest of India, warning that continued disruptions could adversely affect the future of younger generations.

He appealed to communities to move beyond past incidents and embrace forgiveness, reconciliation and mutual understanding, urging them to work together toward a peaceful, united and prosperous Manipur.

Thirteen Catholic valley schools are participating in the sports and literary meet, which promotes peace through student activities and interschool engagement.

The event was attended by MLA Karam Shyam Singh, Catholic priests, teachers from participating schools, students and other dignitaries.