Manipur CM Says Disarming All Forms of Firearms From All parts of the State is an Urgent Need

Manipur chief minister Yumnam Khemchand on Wednesday said disarming of all forms of firearms from all parts of the state is an urgent need.

Khemchand made the statement while meeting Sinakeithei Village Authority of at his official bungalow in presence of Ukhrul MLA, Ram Muivah.

The delegation from Sinakeithei Village Authority urged the chief minister to deploy state police forces (Indian Reserve Battalion - IRB) in their village in view of the tense situation in the State.

The villagers also demanded adequate manpower for the Sinakeithei police station and the proper functioning of the existing Sub-Divisional Collector (SDC)’s office at Sinakeithei.

Saying that repeated attacks by armed men on Sinakeithei village in the recent past has resulted in an atmosphere of constant fear, insecurity and distress, the delegation demanded the government for proper security in their area and requested the government to provide humanitarian relief and essential commodities.

The Sinakeithei Village Authority further requested the Chief Minister to provide security cover on the road between Mahadev and Sinakeithei village and proper health facilities and development in their area.

Khemchand told the delegations that peace is the only solution, and there are no other options in Manipur. 

He also said that public leaders of all communities need to convince the youths to shun the path of violence and work for peace in the State while giving an example of famous South African leader, late Nelson Mandela who brought peace in his country despite racial violence.

The Chief Minister said that the government is trying to create jobs in non-governmental sectors by imparting skill development training to youths.

The villagers expressed gratitude to the Chief Minister for deploying two companies of BSF in the Sinakeithei area and for constructing an inter-village road from Sinakeithei to Ukhrul district headquarters, and sanctioning of one bailey bridge over Ihang river.