Manipur CM Yumnam Khemchand Singh announces peace panel for 36 communities after PM Modi query

The Manipur government will set up a peace committee representing all 36 ethnic communities in the state to foster harmony and advance inclusive development, Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh has announced. The initiative follows a query from Prime Minister Narendra Modi on establishing a unified panel to bring every community in the state together.

Speaking at a felicitation ceremony for tribal hill chiefs during the Mera Hou Chongba festival in Imphal, Singh said he would consult Maharaja Leishemba Sanajaoba and state legislators to finalize the committee. He urged the public to support the initiative, highlighting that every community in Manipur has historically contributed to defending the state.

Infrastructure and community outreach

To strengthen integration between the hill and valley regions, the state government inaugurated the Hill Chiefs' Guest House at the Palace Compound in Imphal. The venue provides permanent accommodation for visiting tribal leaders who previously had to stay in commercial hotels during state events.

Maharaja Leishemba Sanajaoba noted that the new infrastructure marks a practical step toward long-term brotherhood, providing a dedicated space for hill leaders to gather in the capital.

Firm stance on law and order

Reinforcing state security, Singh also visited Sinai Camp in Kangpokpi district, making him the first sitting chief minister to inspect a designated Suspension of Operations facility. Central Reserve Police Force CoBRA units and state police recently took control of the camp, which belonged to the Kuki National Army and Kuki Liberation Army, after joint operations identified 17 individuals using false identities.

During his inspection, the chief minister commended security personnel for restoring law and order while instructing forces to ensure law-abiding citizens are protected during combing operations. Singh emphasized that regional progress requires an absolute end to illegal arms, appealing to all groups to surrender weapons and participate in bringing stability back to the state.