First hill route visit in nearly three years seen as outreach effort amid ongoing tensions in the state
Imphal: Manipur Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh met Kuki MLA Haokholet Kipgen at Hengbung in Kangpokpi district on April 10 while returning to Imphal after an official visit to Senapati.
The visit marked his first travel through the hill district route in nearly three years, following the unrest that began in May 2023. In Senapati, the Chief Minister launched multiple development projects and laid foundation stones for new initiatives aimed at strengthening infrastructure and public services.
Officials said the stopover at Hengbung provided an opportunity for direct engagement with the Saitu MLA. During the interaction, Kipgen highlighted key issues concerning his constituency, and the Chief Minister assured that the government would examine them and extend necessary support.
Sharing details of the meeting, Singh described the interaction as constructive and emphasised that such engagements are essential for inclusive governance and balanced regional development. He also acknowledged the role of local officials in facilitating coordination on the ground.
The visit comes amid continuing tensions in parts of Manipur, including protests over the recent Tronglaobi blast in Bishnupur district that claimed the lives of two children. Demonstrators have demanded accountability and stronger security measures.
The Chief Minister’s visit is being viewed as part of a broader effort to restore normalcy through dialogue, development initiatives, and outreach to community representatives.
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