Manipur CM urges collective effort to restore peace, revive economy

Manipur Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh on Tuesday appealed to people across political lines to work together towards restoring peace in the state. Addressing a gathering after inaugurating development projects in Imphal East, Singh stressed that conflict resolution required collective effort beyond rhetoric, and that all 36 communities must unite to prevent further strife. He recalled historical precedent from the 1819–1826 "Seven Years' Devastation," when leaders of Naga, Kuki, Meitei and Meitei Pangal communities joined forces against external threat.

Singh emphasized that development could not progress in conflict-affected areas and urged political parties to prioritize state stability over criticism. He noted the economic toll of the ongoing crisis, citing around ₹475 crore in GST collection losses during 2023–24 following the May 3, 2023 incident.