Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh, with a view to disseminate the message of peace and harmony among various communities in the State through different forms of art, met several renowned artistes of Manipur at the Chief Minister’s Bungalow at Babupara in Imphal today.
Speaking to the artistes, Khemchand Singh stated that the crisis in the State, which started between two communities, has now turned into a conflict involving three communities. He added that the Meiteis must take on the role of a big brother and big sister, and take initiatives to bring an end to the crisis.
The Chief Minister recalled that during the crisis, when he was a Cabinet Minister in the State, he had requested the Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA) of Henglep Constituency, Letzamang Haokip, to extend support in saving the lives of 120 Meitei labourers in Churachandpur District, which the MLA earnestly followed. Therefore, Shri Khemchand Singh stated that it is unethical to blame an entire community for the wrongdoing of few individuals.
He maintained that restoring trust and love among the different communities residing in the State requires bridging the barriers that had existed between them during the crisis. He added that Jiribam district has returned to normalcy, with all the communities residing peacefully without any mistrust.
Khemchand Singh also stressed that the government support the implementation of the National Register of Citizens (NRC) in the State and appreciated the artistes for bringing up the issue to the government.
Art & Culture Minister Khuraijam Loken Singh, who organised today’s gathering, said that the government is ready to help all the artistes and urged them to work for the unity of the people of this State.
Shougrakpam Hemanta a stage play artiste (Shumang Leela) stated that it is important to revive the age-old relationships that existed among the different communities residing in the State. He added that a stage play titled ‘Ei Manipuri Ni’ (I am Manipuri) must be produced.
During the meeting, Gokul Athokpam, a prominent actor said that artistes are ready to visit different areas along National Highway 2 to interact with different communities and urged the government to make proper security arrangement.
He added that the Government should take the initiative to provide subsidised rates for conducting stage plays or musical concerts to help artistes.
Konthoujam Bobin a singer said that, as an artiste, he takes pride in being a part of promoting oneness in the State. He added that all artistes should remain united to strengthen the bond of love irrespective of which community they belong.
Guru Rewben Mashangva, a Tangkhul Naga folk artiste also stated that if all artistes acknowledge, without any differences, that we are all Manipuris collectively, the vision of oneness can be achieved.
Chanam Lilabati a popular actress, told the gathering that emphasis should be given in social media to attract the younger generation towards peace building and love among different communities.
The meeting was attended by Secretary Art & Culture, Naorem Praveen Singh; Advisor (Media) to Chief Minister Oinam Sunil Singh and artistes among others.
