Y Khemchand Singh on May 22 appealed to the people of Manipur to refrain from enforcing bandhs and blockades, stating that such protests affect daily wage earners the most and further strain the state’s economy amid ongoing unrest.
Speaking at the inauguration of an RCC bridge over the Nambul River at Akham Mayai Leikai in Imphal West district, the chief minister urged citizens to resolve differences through dialogue rather than shutdowns.
“Enforcing bandhs and blockades out of anger toward the government only leads to hardship, particularly for daily wage earners,” Singh said while addressing the gathering.
Referring to his visits to violence-affected Jiribam district, Singh said he had travelled there twice — first by helicopter and later by road — and met members of different communities, including Kuki, Paite, Hmar and Meitei groups.
“All are having cordial relations,” he said, adding that people at the grassroots level had come together during his visit.
The chief minister also recalled the bomb attack at Tronglaobi in Bishnupur district in April, where two children lost their lives. He said the incident caused widespread grief and triggered economic disruptions due to shutdowns and bandhs across the state.
“The incident caused disruptions to the economy of the state due to shutdowns and bandhs,” he said.
Appealing for restraint, Singh said anger or frustration against the government should be addressed through discussions and mutual understanding instead of disruptive protests.
Later, in a social media post, the chief minister said the newly inaugurated bridge in the Lamsang Assembly Constituency would improve connectivity, facilitate movement of people and goods, and support local markets.
He added that the government remained committed to strengthening road connectivity and developing quality infrastructure for the welfare and progress of the people of Manipur.
