Imphal

Y Khemchand Singh commenced a three-day visit to Jiribam district on Saturday, marking a significant road journey along National Highway-37 amid ongoing ethnic tensions in the state.

Travelling approximately 217 km from Imphal, the chief minister’s route passed through Kangpokpi, a Kuki-majority district. The journey holds symbolic importance, as members of the Meitei and Kuki communities have largely avoided crossing into each other’s areas since the outbreak of violence.

Singh was accompanied by several senior leaders, including state BJP president A Sharda Devi, multiple MLAs, and top officials from the police and civil administration.

The visit comes against the backdrop of a previously aborted attempt in June 2024, when former chief minister N Biren Singh had to cancel a similar यात्राafter militants attacked his advance security convoy in Kangpokpi, leaving a security personnel injured.

Officials described the current trip as part of efforts to restore confidence and address grievances in conflict-affected areas. During his stay, Singh is expected to meet internally displaced persons and engage with representatives from Meitei, Kuki and Hmar communities.

The chief minister had earlier visited Jiribam in February this year, interacting with families affected by the violence.

READ MORE: Two-time World Champ Nikhat Zareen's story begins with smashing stereotypes

Recently, Union Home Minister Amit Shah had urged the Manipur government to speed up reconciliation measures and strengthen communal harmony in the state.