Calling for a return to the legacy of courage upheld by Manipuri women during the historic Nupi Lals, BJP MLA and former Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh on Thursday asked whether it was fair to portray an entire community negatively amid the ongoing ethnic crisis.
“Can we say all Kukis are bad?” he questioned, while urging the women of the state to take the lead in rebuilding peace and restoring normalcy.
Speaking at a Nupi Lal Day observance at Singjamei, Khemchand said the sacrifices of Manipuri mothers during the 1904 and 1939 women’s uprisings must inspire today’s society to walk the path of unity and reconciliation. “Their legacy should guide us toward peace, unity, and progress for a developed Manipur,” he said.
“Our courageous mothers fought for justice and stability. That same spirit is needed today,” he added.
Khemchand, the first Meitei legislator to visit a Kuki village since the conflict began, shared details of his recent trip to Litan Sareikhong and Chassad. He said Kuki IDPs there expressed a desire to return home, similar to Meitei IDPs in the valley. “Both sides want peace. We must all join hands,” he said.
Reacting to objections raised by some Kuki CSOs regarding his visit, the MLA said he went only to initiate people-to-people contact. “They can oppose my visit, but I too have the right to visit any part of the state. Why should anyone stop me from spreading peace?” he remarked.
He further highlighted acts of humanity from both communities. “Both sides saved 47,000 people during the conflict, though 260 lives were lost. Instead of only focusing on tragedy, we must also tell the world how Meiteis and Kukis protected each other,” he said.
He recounted how a Kuki MLA and a village chief saved 120 Meitei labourers by escorting them to an Assam Rifles camp from where they were safely brought to Imphal. “Can we say all Kukis are bad?” he repeated, stressing the need to acknowledge such stories of compassion.
Khemchand said the idea of Manipur must be preserved by all 36 communities. “Unity among all communities is essential for a united Manipur,” he asserted.
