Manipur CM visits violence-hit Jiribam for first time since 2023 ethnic violence

Manipur Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh on Saturday began his three-day visit to Jiribam district, one of the most affected places due to the ethnic violence, marking a rare road journey through sensitive areas that has remained incident-free so far.

Accompanied by Manipur BJP chief A Sharda Devi, several MLAs and senior officials, the Chief Minister travelled approximately 217 km from Imphal via National Highway-37. The route passes through parts of Kangpokpi district, a Kuki-majority region that has remained tense since ethnic violence between Meiteis and Kukis erupted in May 2023.

Singh’s visit is particularly notable as it is the first time a Meitei-elected representative has undertaken a road journey to Jiribam since the outbreak of the ethnic conflict, which has claimed over 260 lives. Security forces maintained heightened vigil throughout the route, ensuring safe passage for the MLAs' convoy.

The visit came against the backdrop of a failed attempt by former Chief Minister N Biren Singh to reach Jiribam in June 2024. That visit had to be cancelled after suspected militants ambushed his convoy near Kotlen in Kangpokpi district, injuring a security personnel.

Taking to X, Singh highlighted the importance of community engagement during his visit. “It is a matter of immense satisfaction that I received a warm and cordial welcome at the Community Interaction Programme. The gathering reflected a spirit of unity,” he said.

He further emphasised that such initiatives are crucial to “strengthen bonds among communities and build a shared vision for a peaceful and progressive society,” calling for wider and more regular community interaction programmes.

In another post, the Chief Minister reiterated his government’s commitment to strengthening healthcare delivery, noting that the hospital plays a “critical role in ensuring equitable access to medical care, especially during emergencies.”

The outreach programme in Jiribam included interactions with internally displaced persons (IDPs) and leaders from Meitei, Kuki and Hmar communities, focusing on peace, dialogue and reconciliation.

Officials said the current journey is part of a broader trust-building initiative aimed at restoring confidence among communities divided by the conflict. Singh is scheduled to interact with internally displaced persons (IDPs) and hold discussions with leaders from Meitei, Kuki and Hmar communities.

Upon arrival, Singh received a warm welcome from senior police and civil administration officials, as well as local leaders. A review of the ground situation was conducted at Leingangpokpi police outpost to assess governance and security preparedness in the district.

During his visit, the Chief Minister also inspected the Jiribam District Hospital at Ningshingkhul and announced plans to introduce a comprehensive transfer policy for medical personnel to address staffing shortages. He assured that doctors’ quarters would be upgraded to improve working conditions and strengthen healthcare delivery.

In a community outreach programme held at a local church in Jiribam, Singh emphasised the importance of dialogue and unity among communities. He highlighted the need for regular engagement to foster peace and ensure inclusive development.

The visit followed recent discussions between Singh and Union Home Minister Amit Shah in Delhi, where the Centre urged accelerated efforts toward restoring normalcy and strengthening communal harmony in Manipur.

Officials described the Manipur Chief Minister’s visit as both symbolic and strategic, underlining the government’s intent to re-establish connectivity, governance and trust in one of the Northeastern state’s most sensitive regions.

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