IMPHAL, Feb 19: In a significant outreach since the outbreak of ethnic violence in May 2023, Yumnam Khemchand Singh on Thursday jointly interacted with internally displaced persons (IDPs) from both hill and valley districts, reaffirming his government’s commitment to reconciliation and rehabilitation in Manipur.

The interaction was held in a hybrid format during the Distribution of Benefits to IDPs through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) programme at the Alternate Housing Complex, National Games Village (NGV) Relief Camp in Imphal West. Around ₹33 crore was released to displaced families as part of the initiative.

For the first time since the violence engulfed the state, the Chief Minister interacted with IDPs from Meitei and Kuki-Zo communities together — meeting some in person at Langol and connecting virtually with relief camps in Churachandpur and Kangpokpi districts. Deputy Chief Minister Nemcha Kipgen and MLAs L.M. Khaute, Paolienlal Haokip and others joined the programme through video conference.

During the emotional interaction, several IDPs shared their hardships, including disruptions in education, healthcare challenges and the longing to return home. A young student from Kangpokpi spoke about difficulties in continuing her post-graduation, while a displaced woman from Moreh expressed her desire to return to her residence after nearly three years in a relief camp.

Responding to their concerns, Khemchand Singh said the first priority of the new government, formed after President’s Rule, is to facilitate the safe and peaceful return of IDPs. He thanked Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla for guidance in enabling some displaced families to return.

Acknowledging the prevailing trust deficit between communities, the Chief Minister said lasting peace can only be achieved through mutual understanding and reconciliation. “I will not let your tears go in vain,” he assured, stressing that bridging the divide between communities remains the government’s top priority.

Highlighting specific measures, he announced financial support of ₹2,420 per person for essential items, ₹1 lakh compensation for fully burnt houses, ₹25,000 first instalments to affected households, and an additional ₹20,000 assistance for eligible families. He also assured that pending cases would be addressed.

On education and healthcare concerns, the Chief Minister said around 8,000 Kuki-Zo students had been affected by the conflict and a special plan would be prepared for those unable to continue studies. He assured fool-proof security for those seeking medical treatment in Imphal and said new ambulances had been arranged to ease access to healthcare.

Stating that Manipur is home to 36 communities, Khemchand Singh appealed to civil society organisations in both hills and valley to work collectively towards restoring normalcy and strengthening unity. He added that MLAs would visit all 36 relief camps as part of the state-wide rehabilitation initiative.