Former United National Liberation Front (UNLF) chairman R.K. Sanayaima Singh, popularly known as Meghen, has called for a deeper understanding of the historical relationships among the Meiteis, Meitei Pangals and communities inhabiting Manipur’s surrounding hills, stressing the need to recognise distinct identities while acknowledging their historical, social and cultural connections.
Speaking as chief guest at the launch of Zomi: Reclaiming Identity and Brotherhood, co-authored by journalist Naorem Mohen and Anthony Naulak, at the Manipur Press Club, Meghen highlighted the importance of mutual understanding and peaceful coexistence amid the continuing consequences of the ethnic violence that began in May 2023.
The programme, presided over by Dr. Kiran Yendrembam, featured discussions on Zomi identity, Manipur’s history and the need to examine historical claims through documentary evidence, oral traditions and scholarly research rather than competing ethnic narratives.
Reviewing the book, historian Dr. Takhellambam Bhabhananda cautioned against using historical accounts to establish exclusive ethnic or territorial claims, stressing that cultural identity and territorial sovereignty were separate questions requiring independent evidence. He called for an evidence-based approach that respected every community’s identity and rights.
Co-author Naorem Mohen said the book sought to address gaps and misconceptions in the understanding of the Paite-Zomi community’s historical connections with Manipur. He maintained that examining one community’s history should not diminish the historical position or rights of another.
Anthony Naulak stressed the importance of documenting oral traditions, clan genealogies, village histories and customary practices alongside royal chronicles and colonial records. He said a portion of the book’s proceeds would be used to assist internally displaced persons affected by the ongoing conflict, including families in Imphal, Churachandpur and Kangpokpi.
