Manipur CM Khemchand Singh Visits Jiribam by Road for First Time Since Unrest
Manipur Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh arrived in Jiribam district on April 5, marking his first road journey to the region since ethnic tensions escalated in the state.
First Road Visit Amid Security Concerns
The Chief Minister is on a three-day visit, accompanied by:
• Eight BJP MLAs
Members of the Delegation
The delegation included:
• A. Sharda Devi – BJP Manipur President
• T. Robindro – MLA, Thanga
• Sheikh Noorul Hassan – MLA, Kshetrigao
• Heikham Dingo – MLA, Sekmai
• Dr. S. Ranjan – MLA, Konthoujam
• S. Premchandra – MLA, Kumbi
• Sapam Kunjeshore – MLA, Patsoi
• Khongkham Robindro – MLA, Mayang Imphal
• L. Rameshor – MLA, Keirao
• Muhammad Achab Uddin – MLA, Jiribam
This visit comes shortly after his meeting with Amit Shah in New Delhi, where the overall situation in Manipur was reviewed.
Focus on Dialogue and Confidence-Building
During his stay in Jiribam, the Chief Minister is expected to:
• Interact with community leaders from both Kuki-Hmar and Meitei groups
• Meet internally displaced persons (IDPs) affected by the violence
• Assess the ground situation and rehabilitation efforts
The visit is seen as part of the government’s effort to restore trust and promote dialogue in violence-affected areas.
Background: Earlier Security Challenges
The road journey holds particular significance due to past security threats along NH-37:
• In June 2024, former Chief Minister N Biren Singh had planned a similar visit
• His convoy was ambushed near Kotlen in Kangpokpi district
• The attack injured security personnel and forced the visit to be cancelled
Significance of the Visit
This marks:
• The first successful road visit by the current Chief Minister to Jiribam after the unrest
• His second visit overall to the district since assuming office
• A step toward normalisation and administrative outreach
Renewed Push for Stability
The visit underscores the government’s priorities:
• Strengthening peace-building efforts
• Ensuring safe connectivity and governance access
• Rebuilding confidence among affected communities
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The Chief Minister’s road journey to Jiribam is being viewed as a symbolic and strategic move, reflecting improved security coordination and a renewed commitment to restoring stability in Manipur.
