Dr Muhammad Riyajuddin Khan, an intending candidate from the Lilong Assembly Constituency for the upcoming Manipur Assembly elections, on Sunday stressed the importance of peace and communal harmony in the state and said minority communities could play an important role in bringing different groups together.
Speaking during a “Developmental Public Discussion” programme organised in Lilong Assembly Constituency, Khan said the continuing unrest in Manipur had affected normal life and slowed the pace of development in the state.
He said peace was necessary for progress and added that all communities must work together to restore normalcy.
“To bring peace and communal harmony among communities, the role of minorities is very necessary. Minority communities must act as a bridge between powerful communities,” Khan said while addressing the gathering.
Referring to the prolonged crisis in Manipur, he said the state had been facing unrest for the last several years, but there was still uncertainty about when the situation would improve completely.
“The unrest in Manipur has been going on for the last three to four years, but we still cannot see a clear solution as to when peace will return,” he said.
Khan stated that there was a need for a fresh and practical approach to rebuild trust among communities and restore harmony across the state. According to him, peace-building efforts should involve all sections of society, including minority communities, civil society organisations and local leaders.
He also said that development activities could not move forward properly in an atmosphere of tension and instability.
“Without peace and harmony in the state, no development can be achieved,” he added.
The programme in Lilong focused on issues related to development, public welfare and the present condition in Manipur. Participants also discussed the challenges being faced by people due to the prolonged conflict and the need for long-term solutions.
