Mary Kom extends humanitarian support to IDPs in Manipur, offers free boxing training to children

Legendary Indian boxer and Olympic medallist MC Mary Kom on December 17 extended humanitarian assistance to internally displaced persons (IDPs) affected by the ongoing conflict in Manipur, distributing blankets and offering words of solidarity and hope.

 

Mary Kom visited the protest site at Lanboikhongnangkhong in Imphal West, where the Coordinating Committee on Manipur Integrity (COCOMI) and IDPs have been staging a continuous protest since December 1. The agitation demands the resettlement of all displaced families by December 31, in line with the timeline earlier announced by the Manipur government.

 

During her visit, the boxing icon distributed blankets to IDPs as part of a humanitarian outreach and interacted with displaced families, expressing empathy and urging peace and unity. She described the assistance as a small but meaningful gesture of support, noting that even limited help can provide comfort and hope to families facing prolonged hardship.

 

In a significant announcement aimed at empowering the younger generation, Mary Kom said children from IDP families who show an interest in boxing would be provided free training at her boxing academy. She emphasised that sports play a crucial role in healing trauma, instilling discipline and rebuilding confidence, particularly among children affected by conflict.

 

Appealing for sustained collective efforts, Mary Kom urged authorities and society at large to ensure that displaced families are rehabilitated with dignity and security.

 

COCOMI Women Wing Convenor RK Tharaksa lauded Mary Kom’s gesture, stating that her presence and support on December 17 provided emotional strength and renewed encouragement to the IDPs. Members of the IDP community and COCOMI expressed heartfelt gratitude, describing the initiative as a powerful act of compassion during a time of deep distress.