Manipur Chief Minister Invokes Bible and Buddha's Teachings in Appeal for Peace

Kangpokpi, Manipur, July 9, 2026: Amid continuing efforts to restore peace in violence-hit Manipur, Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh appealed for reconciliation and communal harmony during visits to the hill districts of Kangpokpi and Senapati, invoking both the Bible and the teachings of Gautama Buddha to underscore the values of forgiveness, compassion and mutual respect.

Addressing community leaders and residents on Wednesday, the Chief Minister urged people to reject violence and work together to rebuild trust among the state's Kuki, Naga and Meitei communities, which have been deeply affected by ethnic conflict over the past several years.

Speaking in Kangpokpi, a predominantly Kuki district where Christian churches have played a vital role in supporting conflict-affected families, Singh said lasting peace could only be achieved through dialogue, justice and reconciliation rather than continued division.

During his visit, the Chief Minister met Church leaders and local representatives, assuring them that the government remained committed to securing justice in the killings of Christian Church leaders during the ethnic violence. Acknowledging the grief of the affected families, he said investigations into the incidents would continue until those responsible were brought to justice.

The assurance was welcomed by members of the local community, who have consistently called for accountability and greater protection for religious leaders and civilians affected by the unrest.

Singh also visited neighbouring Senapati district, where he held discussions with civil society organisations, religious leaders and government officials on measures to restore normalcy, improve public services and strengthen cooperation among the state's diverse ethnic communities.

By drawing on both Christian and Buddhist traditions, the Chief Minister sought to emphasise the universal values of peace, forgiveness and compassion shared across religions. Observers noted that the gesture reflected the religious diversity of Manipur, where Christianity is the predominant faith among many tribal communities, alongside significant Hindu and Buddhist populations.

Religious leaders have continued to play a crucial role in peacebuilding initiatives throughout the conflict, offering humanitarian assistance to displaced families and promoting dialogue among divided communities.

Although large-scale violence has declined, many families remain displaced and continue to face the challenges of rebuilding their lives. Community leaders have repeatedly stressed that lasting peace will require sustained dialogue, accountability for victims and genuine cooperation across ethnic and religious divides.

The Chief Minister's visit forms part of the state government's ongoing efforts to foster reconciliation while reaffirming its commitment to justice and peaceful coexistence in Manipur.

Courtesy The Hindu

Photo Courtesy: Special Arrangement