BJP MLA and former Rural Development Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh on Monday visited Kuki-inhabited areas in Manipur’s hill districts, in what many residents described as a rare development since the ethnic unrest that began in May 2023. The visit marks the first such public outreach by a prominent Meitei leader to Kuki villages after more than two years of tension.
According to persons who accompanied him, the MLA travelled to two villages in Ukhrul district and interacted with several local residents. They said the purpose of the visit was mainly to build confidence and open communication between communities that have remained sharply divided due to the prolonged conflict. Khemchand began his tour from Litan, a remote settlement near the India-Myanmar border. Villagers briefed him about their situation after the violence started and spoke about daily challenges that continue even now. One of his major stops was the relief camp located at the Litan Sareikhong Baptist Church where displaced families are still staying.
Addressing the people gathered there, the MLA said that the state could move forward only when every community feels secure. He said that this was not the time to avoid each other and called on everyone to think about peace with Christmas approaching. “With Christmas coming, we should all pray for the return of peace in our state,” he told the displaced families.
