Echoes of hope resounded in Jiribam as Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh toured relief camps on Wednesday, his inaugural visit outside Imphal. Addressing Meitei and Kuki-Zo IDPs alike, he passionately urged forgetting the ‘nightmare’ of two years’ violence to forge a united path to peace and economic revival.
The border district’s strategic location positions it as Manipur’s trade gateway. ‘Like Mumbai powers India’s economy, Jiribam can lead ours—but peace first,’ Singh declared at Jiribam Higher Secondary School camp. Conversations revealed deep-seated trust issues, which he said demand joint resolution.
Shifting to Kalinagar for Hmar tribe IDPs, the CM invoked faith-based mercy: Christianity’s call to love foes. In Jarolpokpi Hmar village, a 2023 flashpoint, villagers voiced support alongside school-building needs. Mongbung Meiteis sought road fixes, met with development vows.
Singh warned of divisive forces eroding ‘Manipuri’ ethos: ‘Primarily Indians, secondarily Manipuris of diverse Naga, Kuki, Meitei stripes.’ Post-tour media briefing highlighted IDP rehab momentum—houses rising, due March—initiated under President’s rule. A palliative wheelchair gift touched hearts.
Welcomed by district collector Krishna Kumar and SP Prakhar Pandey, the visit reinforces Jiribam’s priority. Singh’s message: Dialogue will mend rifts, unlocking the district’s commercial destiny for all communities.