Manipur: Naga MLA urges communities to shun violence, restore peace after killing of civilian

Naga MLA from Nungba constituency, Dinganglung Gangmei, on June 9, urged people to reject violence and work towards restoring peace in Manipur, stating that conflicts between communities have never brought any lasting benefit.

Gangmei made the appeal while attending a solidarity gathering held at the Regional Institute of Medical Sciences (RIMS) mortuary in Imphal for Chunjanglung Panmei (58), who was killed in an alleged ambush by armed militants on June 8.

People from various communities and organisations gathered to pay floral tributes to the deceased. Following the ceremony, Panmei's body was taken to his native village, Pongringlong in Kangpokpi district, for the last rites.

Expressing his condolences to the bereaved family, Gangmei said history has repeatedly shown that violence and inter-community conflict only lead to suffering and loss. He called on people to focus on peace and reconciliation instead of engaging in acts of violence.

"The law will take its own course against those involved in unlawful activities," he said, adding that citizens should have faith in democratic institutions and legal processes.

The MLA noted that India, as a democratic nation, provides constitutional avenues for addressing grievances and demands. He stressed that every citizen has the right to seek justice and raise concerns through democratic means.

Referring to the violence that has affected several hill districts in recent years, Gangmei said many conflicts arise from misunderstandings and can be resolved through dialogue and mutual understanding.

He asserted that lasting solutions can only emerge through discussions and peaceful engagement, warning that a culture of violence and retaliatory killings would not benefit any community or contribute to the state's progress.

The appeal comes amid continued concerns over sporadic violence in parts of Manipur and growing calls from community leaders for peace, reconciliation and the restoration of normalcy.