Peace March Held in Cachar District’s Lakhipur Area in Solidarity with Victims of Violence in Manipur

In a display of solidarity and unity, residents of Sribar GP, under the jurisdiction of Cachar District administration, participated in a peace march organized by the United Youth’s Organisation. The rally aimed to stand in support of the victims of recent violence in Manipur and appealed for peace and the restoration of brotherhood in the state.

The violence erupted in the state capital, Imphal, on May 3 when thousands of individuals from the Naga and Kuki tribes staged a rally protesting against the Meitei ethnic group’s demand for special status under India’s “Scheduled Tribe” grouping. The Meitei community, constituting roughly 50% of the state’s population and primarily following Hinduism, has long campaigned to be recognized as a scheduled tribe. Such recognition would grant them access to various benefits in terms of healthcare, education, and government employment. The violence was triggered by the Manipur High Court’s directive to the state government to pursue a decade-old recommendation to grant Scheduled Tribe (ST) status to the Meitei community.

The members of the United Youth’s Organisation, during the peace rally held in Lakhipur, marched approximately 2 kilometers before reaching a Shiva temple. They offered diyas (traditional oil lamps) to the deity, praying for the victims affected by the recent violence. “Thousands of people have been displaced from their homes, and many are seeking refuge in Assam. As residents living near the interstate border in Cachar, Assam, we stand with these stranded individuals and appeal for peace to be restored,” stated a member of the organization.

The peace march aimed to demonstrate brotherhood, unity, and the shared humanity that binds all individuals together, regardless of their ethnic background. By coming together and voicing their support for the victims, the residents of Sribar GP sought to convey a powerful message of solidarity.

The peaceful procession attracted a significant number of participants, who joined hands in advocating for harmony and calling for an end to violence. Through their collective efforts, they hoped to create an atmosphere of peace and understanding in Manipur, fostering a society that values inclusivity and respects the rights of all its members.

As tensions remain high, the rally in Lakhipur serves as a reminder of the importance of compassion, empathy, and mutual respect in times of conflict. It is hoped that such demonstrations of unity will help pave the way for dialogue and reconciliation, ultimately leading to a peaceful resolution of the ongoing issues in Manipur.