Manipur Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh has called upon the women of the state to play a proactive role in restoring peace during a period of prolonged tension. Speaking at a community event held to address concerns related to the ongoing disturbances, the minister emphasised that women have historically been the backbone of Manipur’s social harmony. He stressed that their involvement is crucial in guiding families, neighbourhoods, and larger communities toward peace and reconciliation.
Addressing the gathering, the minister said that the state has faced a series of challenges in recent months, with disturbances impacting daily life, economic activity, and social relationships. He acknowledged that women have been among the most affected, bearing emotional, social, and financial burdens. Despite this, he highlighted that their resilience and leadership have always been instrumental in navigating crises. Referring to the rich cultural legacy of groups such as the Meira Paibi, he noted that women’s collectives have historically played a strong role in maintaining law and order at the community level.
Khemchand Singh appealed to women to encourage dialogue within their communities and support initiatives aimed at bringing conflicting groups to the negotiation table. He reiterated the state government’s commitment to pursuing peace through democratic processes, consultations, and welfare initiatives. According to him, lasting peace can only be achieved when citizens participate actively and contribute to rebuilding trust among different sections of society.
The minister also addressed concerns shared by local residents, including issues related to displacement, impaired livelihoods, and safety fears. He assured that the government is working on strengthening relief measures, improving communication channels, and ensuring that essential services reach affected regions. He added that various departments are coordinating efforts to restore normalcy and assist families that have been displaced due to violence or insecurity.
During the event, several women leaders from local organisations expressed their views on the path forward. They called for improved security measures, more transparent communication from authorities, and increased involvement of women in policy discussions related to peace and rehabilitation. Many speakers also stressed the need for youth engagement, education, and counselling support to address the long-term effects of the ongoing conflict.
The minister commended the contributions made by these community groups and encouraged them to continue working collaboratively. He also urged civil society organisations, student bodies, and local committees to cooperate with the government in identifying immediate needs and implementing long-term solutions. According to him, peace in Manipur must be built on inclusive dialogue, empathy, and a shared commitment to stability.
As Manipur continues to navigate a sensitive atmosphere, the minister’s appeal serves as a reminder of the pivotal role women play in shaping social cohesion. The call for women-led peace efforts has been welcomed by several community representatives, who believe that empowering women at the grassroots level is essential for sustainable conflict resolution.
The next phase of the government's plan is expected to focus on communication outreach, strengthening support networks, and building platforms where community voices can be heard. With this renewed emphasis on collective responsibility, efforts to restore peace in Manipur are expected to gain momentum in the coming weeks.
