IT News
Imphal, Feb 8:
The President of the United People’s Front, Manipur (UPF), N. Rupachandra, has urged members of the State Assembly Constituencies to take decisive steps toward implementing rehabilitation measures to ensure a stable livelihood for village volunteers who have taken up arms to protect their communities in the upcoming state assembly session.
Rupachandra made the appeal during a free health camp organized by UPF in collaboration with the Chief Medical Officer (CMO), Imphal East, and the Chanung Sintha Club at Chanung village, a designated red zone in Imphal East district.
Addressing the gathering, he recalled the turmoil that erupted in Manipur on May 3, 2023, following attacks by Chin-Kuki narco-terrorists, leading to relentless violence. He stated that the state had witnessed the killing of innocent civilians, including women and children, widespread arson, and mass displacement. He alleged that militants had resorted to sniper attacks, bombings, and arson in hill areas to target the civilian population.
Highlighting the sacrifices of village volunteers (Khungakpa), Rupachandra noted that many had taken up arms to defend their homes and families. However, he expressed concern over their lack of stable livelihood, emphasizing the urgent need for rehabilitation programs. He urged authorities to initiate support schemes in all conflict-affected assembly constituencies to provide alternative employment opportunities for these volunteers, warning that neglecting them could lead to severe consequences and uncertainty over their future.
Rupachandra also highlighted the significance of the free health camp, which was organized to provide essential medical services to those affected by the ongoing crisis. He assured that similar initiatives would be undertaken in other conflict-affected areas in the future.
The health camp was jointly facilitated by doctors and medical staff from the CMO, Imphal East, with active participation from local clubs and Meira Paibis. Specialist medicine doctor Maibam Johnson from the CMO, Imphal East, stated that the camp offered medical consultations and checkups for residents suffering from ailments such as joint pain, respiratory illnesses, diabetes, and high blood pressure. Psychological counseling was also provided for trauma-affected individuals.
Meanwhile, Chanung Development Committee President Oinam Pakpa expressed gratitude to all those involved in the initiative. A total of around 70 individuals received medical checkups and treatment at the camp.
