Senapati, October 10: Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma visited Senapati town on Friday afternoon, meeting executives of the Naga People’s Organisation (NPO), Senapati District Women Association (SDWA), Senapati District Students’ Association (SDSA), and other local leaders at the NPO office.
In his address to the CSO leaders, Sangma explained that the purpose of his visit to Manipur was to engage with representatives from various communities, acknowledging the hardships and challenges faced by the people of the state. He emphasised that citizens, community leaders, and political parties all have a role to play in restoring peace and normalcy in Manipur. Sangma noted that his team had met prominent CSOs in Imphal, including Meitei, Naga, and Kuki communities, as well as COTU representatives in Kangpokpi, and held discussions with the Manipur Governor to convey their concerns and expectations to the central government, highlighting the prolonged suffering of the people.
As NPP national president, Sangma stressed the party’s aim to build trust, connect communities, and gradually strengthen confidence. He expressed his desire to hear from the people of Senapati regarding their concerns and suggestions on how to address issues faced by different communities. Highlighting the NPP’s regional identity, he stated that it is the only national party originating from the North East, focusing on issues specific to the region. Sangma added that his team would continue engaging with CSOs, Nagaland MLAs, and party leaders to consolidate the party’s presence, expressing gratitude for the warm reception and looking forward to sustained collaboration with communities across Manipur and the wider North East.
On party matters, Sangma noted that the NPP has raised national-level issues, including the Citizenship Amendment Bill (CAB), to seek effective solutions. Regarding border fencing, he acknowledged the central government’s need to identify Indian and non-Indian residents but stressed the importance of considering state policies and conducting local dialogue to balance the concerns of all communities.
The Chief Minister lauded the Naga community for their patience and mature leadership in maintaining neutrality amid challenges, which contributed to improved conditions in Manipur. He encouraged the community to act as agents of peace and invited district CSO members, along with NPP national secretary Dr Lorho, to visit Shillong for interactions with students and professionals from the area.
NPO executives welcomed Sangma and expressed appreciation for his concern and visit, sharing their thoughts on district and Naga community issues. Former Manipur MP and NPP national secretary Dr Lorho S. Pfoze and other leaders also addressed the gathering.
The programme was chaired by John Thangal, NPO general secretary, with addresses by SDWA president RN Hannah, and the vote of thanks delivered by SDSA president A. Saloni Tony.
Sangma was accompanied by Sheikh Noorul Hassan, MLA Kshetrigao AC; Janghemlung Panmei, MLA Tamenglong AC; Saidul Khan, NPP national secretary; Nicky Nongkhlaw, national president of the National People’s Youth; and other party officials.
