Kuki, Hmar, and Nagas in Jiribam Hold Peace Meeting Under the Initiative of Assam Rifles

Civil society organizations of the Kuki, Hmar, and Naga communities held a joint peace meeting at Kadamtala COB in Jiribam district on May 21 under the initiative of the 38 Battalion Assam Rifles.

Kuki Inpi Jiri, Tamenglong and Noney, Hmar Inpui Jiribam, and Hmar Inpui Vangai Region issued a joint statement on May 21 acknowledging Col. Prashant Singh Chundawat, CO of 38th AR, and his officers for their sincere initiative, patience, and commitment toward restoring trust, peace, and brotherhood among the people.

The civil society organizations stated that such efforts during sensitive times deserve recognition and support from all sections of society. They also appealed to every responsible citizen from both communities to exercise utmost restraint in words, actions, and social media activities and to refrain from spreading provocative statements, rumours, hatred, or unnecessary comments that may deepen misunderstandings and create further tension among communities that have lived together for generations.

The release stated that this is not the time for anger, mockery, revenge, or emotional outbursts, but a time for prayer, wisdom, forgiveness, and healing.

The civil society organizations also appealed to all village authorities, church leaders, youth leaders, women leaders, and responsible elders to guide and monitor their respective villages and individuals, especially those under the influence of alcohol or emotions, so that no irresponsible act may damage the fragile peace between communities.

“Let us not become instruments of division through careless words or reckless behavior. We should not open our umbrella when the rain is falling elsewhere. Instead, let us stand together to protect peace before the storm reaches our own homes,” the release stated.

The Rongmei Naga Council Manipur, Jiri Luangrian, also expressed its appreciation for the efforts and contributions of the 38 Battalion Assam Rifles toward maintaining peace, harmony, and public safety in Jiribam district.

“At a time when tension has prevailed in certain parts of the state between the Naga and Kuki communities, the proactive intervention of 38 Bn Assam Rifles under the leadership of Col. Prashant Singh Chundawat has played a vital role in restoring confidence among the people,” said the Rongmei Naga Council Manipur, Jiri Luangrian, in a separate release.

RNCM stated that the battalion convened a peace meeting involving Rongmei, Kuki, and Hmar community leaders and Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) residing in Jiribam district and its adjoining areas.

It stated that the meeting provided a constructive platform for dialogue, where representatives from the communities openly shared their concerns, opinions, and perspectives regarding the ongoing situation.

Through mutual understanding and cooperation, the participants collectively expressed their desire for peace, stability, and normalcy in the district. The discussions also helped reduce fear, mistrust, and misunderstandings prevailing among the public, the release added.

RNCM appealed to all residents of Jiribam district to refrain from spreading propaganda, rumours, misinformation, and AI-generated fake news that may disturb the peaceful atmosphere of the region.

The council also urged citizens to exercise caution and responsibility while sharing information on social media platforms and to avoid anti-social activities or suspicious movements in vulnerable areas.

The council further requested the public to immediately report any sensitive or tension-escalating information to community leaders, district administration, or law enforcement agencies for timely intervention and verification.