'The road to development is through peace' Khemchand says

Manipur Chief Minister Y Khemchand Singh on Saturday said the path of development in the state is through peace.

Hoisting the national flag at the First Manipur Rifles Ground here, the chief minister said India is one of the fastest-growing countries in the world in terms of economy, infrastructure development and manufacturing industries.

"The path of development for Manipur is through peace. The Centre has taken up many steps to improve the law and order situation in the state besides holding talks with representatives of different communities. Peace is most important for development," Singh said.

At least 260 people have been killed and thousands rendered homeless since May 2023 due to ethnic violence in Manipur between the valley-based Meiteis and the Kukis who live in the hill districts.

Following continued ethic clashes and the resignation of Chief Minister N Biren Singh, the state was placed under President’s Rule on February 13, 2025. It was lifted nearly a year later, on February 4, and Y Khemchand Singh became the CM.

"To have peace, we must have mutual trust and foster love among all communities," Singh said, adding that developmental works have been taken up all over the state.

However, due to some unwanted incidents, sometimes it creates apprehension about the goal of peace, he said.

"I, on behalf of the government, strongly condemn yesterday's incident in which two persons were killed in an attack. The perpetrators will certainly be arrested," the chief minister said.

Suspected militants killed two people and injured two others at Langka Naga village in Kangpokpi district on Friday.

Singh said that it is his government's objective to develop the future of the youths, provide strength to women, encourage farmers and entrepreneurs, and preserve the cultural heritage.