Amid Manipur’s lingering ethnic strife, Deputy Chief Minister Losi Dikho on Friday assured comprehensive government outreach during the Zomi National Day event in Churachandpur district.
In an exclusive interaction with journalists, Dikho detailed plans for Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh to visit Kuki areas if welcomed. The focus remains on repatriating thousands displaced by violence. ‘Peace restoration is paramount, and we’re engaging people everywhere,’ he declared, post-cabinet formation.
Explaining delays in Churachandpur visits, Dikho said, ‘Current conditions prevented it, but now we’re proactively reaching out, hearing grievances, and fostering dialogue for harmony.’ This extends to Imphal-bound individuals unable to travel.
Queried on Kuki Zo-Meitei accord possibilities, he noted, ‘It could happen soon; we’re awaiting that moment through sustained contacts.’ Rehabilitation drives are gaining traction, with many displacees satisfied, though access issues persist in some spots.
‘Valley-hill divide doesn’t exist in our policy. We’re committed to all displaced persons,’ Dikho stressed. He referenced successful mediations in Ukhrul’s Litang clash involving Tangkhul and Kukis, and commended Thadou cooperation in peace and governance.
Brushing off Congress’s election bravado for 2027 assembly polls, Dikho quipped, ‘That’s typical party propaganda. Our government trusts the people’s mandate for re-election.’ His remarks signal a renewed push for stability in the multi-ethnic state, long plagued by hill-valley divides.