Shillong, July 4: Mizoram Chief Minister Zoramthanga has made a heartfelt appeal for peace in Manipur, where ethnic violence between the Meitei and Kuki communities has been ongoing for two months.
Expressing concern over the escalating violence, Zoramthanga urged for an end to the clashes, questioning when the situation would cease. He stated, “While we hope with much goodwill, anticipation and hope, things would turn for the better, situations seem to have worsened. When will it stop?”
The onset of May witnessed a brutal, untoward and uncalled-for incident in Manipur. At this very moment, 3:30am, July the 4th, 2023; nothing seems to have changed. We are counting, and today is the 62nd day.
While we hope with much goodwill, anticipation and hope, things would… pic.twitter.com/EKduEqrShY
— Zoramthanga (@ZoramthangaCM) July 3, 2023
The ethnic violence between the Meitei and Kuki communities in Manipur has claimed the lives of over 100 people. The clashes erupted on May 3 following a ‘Tribal Solidarity March’ held in the state’s hill districts to protest against the Meitei community’s demand for Scheduled Tribe (ST) status.
In a poignant statement, Zoramthanga acknowledged the devastating impact of the violence, expressing condolences for his Manipuri Zo ethnic brethren and offering prayers for those who have lost loved ones and homes. He pleaded for an end to the destruction, urging peace and harmony among all.
Highlighting the plight of the internally displaced people seeking refuge in Mizoram due to the crisis in Manipur, Zoramthanga appealed for assistance from the central government. The Mizoram government is awaiting a relief package to support over 12,000 displaced individuals affected by the violence in Manipur.
