Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) at the Alternative Housing Complex Relief Camp in the National Games Village, Imphal West, became emotional on Wednesday as BJP MLA Yumnam Khemchand Singh, visited the camp and interacted with them — a visit many said was the first by any legislator to assess their condition.
Several IDPs were seen in tears as they shared their hardships, needs, and grievances with the MLA, saying no elected representative had earlier visited the relief camp, including their local MLA. Speaking to the media, IDPs expressed happiness and gratitude over the visit and the organisation of a free medical camp. “No MLA came to check our situation. We are very thankful that he visited us, listened to our problems, and arranged this medical camp,” an IDP said.
The displaced families also appreciated the MLA for speaking directly to the concerned authorities in their presence, urging them to address their grievances and urgent needs.
Speaking on the sidelines of the one-day free medical camp, Khemchand emphasised that peace remains the only solution to the ongoing crisis in Manipur and said that harmony and dialogue must prevail despite repeated provocations from certain sections.
Recalling his recent visit to Litan, where he interacted with Kuki IDPs, the BJP legislator from Singjamei Assembly Constituency said people across communities are yearning for peace and normalcy, with many expressing a strong desire to return to their homes.
“If you speak to anyone here, you will hear the same sentiment — a deep wish to go back home,” he said.
With the New Year approaching, the former Minister offered prayers for the restoration of peace in the state and expressed hope that displaced families would soon be able to return home safely and rebuild their lives.
During the medical camp, specialist doctors and medical staff from the Regional Institute of Medical Sciences (RIMS) examined the IDPs and distributed free medicines and medical kits.
