Manipur Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand on August 28 said the trust deficit between communities remains a major obstacle to restoring normalcy in the state. Speaking at a guest lecture in Imphal, he called for identifying people who oppose peace and taking legal action against them. Khemchand stressed that direct dialogue between communities can help rebuild trust and reduce fear.
He also thanked security forces for protecting civilians during the prolonged conflict. The Chief Minister urged citizens, civil society groups, political leaders and security agencies to work together for peace and reconciliation.
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Key Facts
- Location: Imphal, Manipur
- Date: August 28
- Chief Minister: Yumnam Khemchand
- Main issue: Trust deficit between communities
- Event: Guest lecture on trust-building in Manipur
- Organisers: Assam Rifles, Manipur University and MSFDS
- Guest speaker: Author Sudeep Chakravarti
- Reported deaths: Around 270 people
- Focus: Dialogue, reconciliation, security and peace
Trust Deficit Remains Major Challenge
Manipur Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand has described the trust deficit between communities as a key reason for the state’s continuing struggle to return to normalcy.
He made the remarks on August 28 during a guest lecture in Imphal. The event focused on the current situation in Manipur and ways to rebuild trust between communities.
Khemchand said some people continue to oppose peace. He called for authorities to identify such individuals and take legal action against them.
CM Calls for Dialogue
The Chief Minister said communities must begin direct conversations to rebuild confidence. He stressed that people cannot understand each other’s concerns without meaningful interaction.
Khemchand recalled his visits to Jiribam in February and March. He said representatives from three communities met during those visits and shared a meal together.
According to him, such meetings can provide a starting point for rebuilding relationships. He urged people to come forward and communicate despite the existing tensions.
Bomb Blasts Disrupted Sense of Normalcy
Khemchand said efforts to create a sense of normalcy faced serious setbacks after violence returned.
He recalled bomb blasts at Tronglaobi that killed two students. The incident, he said, brought back fear among people and damaged the fragile peace.
The Chief Minister said hostile elements within society continue to promote violence. He maintained that every community wants peace and that such elements must be stopped.
CM Thanks Security Forces
Khemchand also thanked state and central security forces for their role in protecting civilians during the conflict.
He said around 270 people had lost their lives. He expressed deep sorrow over the deaths and highlighted the role of security personnel in preventing further casualties.
The Chief Minister said collective efforts remain essential to restore peace. He called on communities, civil society organisations, political leaders and security agencies to share responsibility for rebuilding trust.
Displaced Families Want to Return Home
Khemchand also spoke about his interactions with internally displaced people. He said families from different communities share a common desire to return home safely.
During a visit to Litan, he recalled meeting Kuki internally displaced persons. They repeatedly asked him when they could return to their homes.
The Chief Minister said their question reflects the pain experienced by displaced families across communities.
He stressed that law enforcement and vigilance remain important. However, he said the larger goal should remain peace, reconciliation and a secure future for Manipur’s children.
Guest Lecture Promotes Dialogue
The event took place in Imphal under an existing memorandum of understanding between the Assam Rifles and the Manipur State Film Development Society (MSFDS).
Manipur University also collaborated in organising the programme. Author Sudeep Chakravarti, known for works including The Eastern Gate, attended as the guest speaker.
The organisers used the programme to promote dialogue and greater understanding of important regional issues.
What did Manipur CM Yumnam Khemchand say?
He said the trust deficit between communities remains a major obstacle to restoring normalcy in Manipur.
What solution did the Chief Minister suggest?
Khemchand called for direct dialogue between communities. He said people must communicate to understand each other’s concerns and rebuild trust.
What did he say about people opposing peace?
The Chief Minister said authorities should identify people who work against peace and take action against them under the law.
How many deaths did Khemchand mention?
He said around 270 people had lost their lives during the prolonged conflict.
What is the long-term goal?
Khemchand said Manipur needs peace, reconciliation and a secure future for its children. He also stressed the need for collective efforts from communities and institutions.
Location Context
Manipur remains a strategically important state in Northeast India. Restoring peace and rebuilding trust between communities remain crucial for the state’s social stability, economic recovery and the safe return of displaced families.
