In a significant development, Union Home Minister Amit Shah has provided assurances of a comprehensive resettlement programme for the thousands of displaced people from violence-hit Churachandpur, Moreh, and Kangpokpi districts in Manipur.
The Union minister conveyed his commitment during a meeting with a team of displaced individuals who had sought refuge in relief camps within the valley districts. The meeting took place at Raj Bhawan on Wednesday evening.
During the meeting, Minister Amit Shah assured timely provision of compensation to the affected persons and to supply essential items required for their stay in the relief camps.
While a specific timeframe for the resettlement programme was not provided, Amit Shah expressed his intention to address the issue as expeditiously as possible.
One of the key concerns raised during the meeting was the situation of displaced individuals from Moreh, who had taken shelter across the border in Myanmar.
Recognising the urgency of the matter, the Union minister emphasised the importance of ensuring their safe return to Manipur.
The team representing the displaced people also emphasised the need for the deployment of adequate state security forces and the Suspension of Operations (SoO) agreement with Kuki militants before allowing the resettlement process to commence.
Soibam Sangita, one of the displaced individuals from Churachandpur, highlighted the team's stance, stating, "We have made it very clear that we will not be able to return to our homes unless the state forces are permanently stationed there, highway protection forces are deployed, and the SoO agreement is suspended, among other conditions."
Speaking to the media following the meeting with the Union Minister, she also drew attention to the intimidation faced by the minority community from Kuki militants in their hometown.
During the meeting, Amit Shah reiterated the government's commitment to safeguarding the integrity of Manipur at all costs. This assurance underscores the government's determination to protect the state's territorial integrity and ensure the safety and well-being of its residents.
The meeting between the Union Home Minister and the team representing the displaced people from Churachandpur, Moreh, and Kangpokpi districts highlights the government's efforts to address the challenges faced by the affected communities.
Apart from the assurances of a resettlement programme, timely compensation, essential supplies, and the commitment to protecting Manipur's integrity, as the situation unfolds, further developments are expected. The government's actions will be closely monitored to assess the progress made in achieving the resettlement objectives and ensuring the well-being of the affected people in Manipur.
