Interfaith Forum Manipur (IFM) has announced two major peace initiatives to be launched on October 2, coinciding with Vijayadashami and the International Day of Nonviolence. The decision was revealed during a press briefing today at Imphal by IFM convener Deben Bachaspatimayum, where representatives from different religions stood together in solidarity.
Addressing the media, Deben said Manipur has suffered decades of cyclical violence, which has worsened in the past two years, displacing thousands and leaving many in despair. “The elderly, men, women, youth, and children have been devastated. Some even resorted to suicides due to hopelessness. It is time to leave behind this cycle of destruction and build a path of peace for the generations to come,” he said.
The IFM convener stressed that identity, security, and a sense of belonging are core human needs, and these can only be fulfilled through compassion and dialogue, not weapons. Leaders from multiple faiths present at the briefing echoed the message, urging communities to embrace reconciliation.
The two initiatives announced include the Foundation for a World Peace Centre in Manipur, dedicated to victims of conflicts since World War II, and a One-Year Youth Peacebuilding Fellowship, aimed at training young people in conflict resolution, peace-building, and community leadership.
Deben also urged the Governor of Manipur, the Central Government, and civil society to support the initiative and appealed for the formation of a neutral third-party professional team to facilitate dialogue between communities.