Community meeting urges protection of Lei Ingkhol settlement from displacement

A public meeting was held at Keikol Community Hall on Monday evening to address growing concerns over the possible displacement of the historic Lei Ingkhol settlement. The event, jointly organized by the Keikol Youth Development Club (KYDC) and Ema Meira Paibi Apunba Keikol, was titled “Save Lei Ingkhol from Displacement.”
Key speakers included Telem Romenkumar, Secretary of KYDC; Thangjam (O) Inao, Secretary of Meira Paibi; and Maimom Anil Meitei, President of Lei Ingkhol Kanba Lup (LKL). They were joined by T. Geetchandra, Joint Secretary of LKL, and Leishangthem Surjit, General Secretary of LKL.
Speakers highlighted the historical significance of Lei Ingkhol, which was established in the 1940s as a rehabilitation colony for individuals affected by leprosy and tuberculosis. The settlement, they noted, has long been part of Meitei habitation and development, and its existence reflects a legacy of resilience and community care.
Concerns were raised over recent developments suggesting the area could be reclassified or cleared, prompting fears of forced displacement. Community leaders and residents voiced strong opposition, asserting that Lei Ingkhol is a legitimate Meitei settlement and must be preserved.
The gathering called for immediate intervention from authorities and urged the public to stand in solidarity with the residents of Lei Ingkhol. Organizers emphasized that protecting the settlement is not only a matter of heritage but also of human dignity and social justice.