Imphal: Manipur chief minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh on Sunday called for unity among all communities in Manipur, while cautioning against divisive elements amid ongoing efforts to restore peace in the state.Addressing a Tiranga Yatra organised in Imphal ahead of Independence Day as part of the nationwide ‘Har Ghar Tiranga’ campaign, Khemchand said Manipur could progress only through collective efforts and not by communities working in isolation.“If Meiteis think only of Meiteis, Nagas only of Nagas, and Kukis only of Kukis, Manipur cannot move forward,” he said, urging the majority Meitei community to play the role of a “big brother” by embracing other communities and upholding unity and integrity.The CM also warned that some elements were attempting to create divisions and mistrust among communities.Khemchand said Manipur occupies a significant place in Southeast Asian history and was among the earliest regions in the area to adopt a democratic system with a Constitution and elected govt after the end of British rule in 1947. He said Manipur’s history reflected contributions from diverse communities who have lived together over generations and recalled that all communities collectively defended and rebuilt the state during historical invasions from Myanmar.BJP Manipur president and Rajya Sabha MP A Sharda Devi said the Tiranga Yatra was a celebration of the responsibilities and pride associated with being an Indian citizen. Referring to opposition criticism, she said the chief minister’s outreach visits to Churachandpur, Kangpokpi and Senapati showed the govt’s commitment to reconciliation and peacebuilding across communities.
