Mizoram Chief Minister Lalduhoma stated on Friday that a political solution is essential to address the ongoing ethnic conflict in Manipur. Emphasizing that there is no "magic solution" to halt violence in Manipur, he pointed out that the resolution lies with the Chief Minister of Manipur.
In response to reports of fresh violence in Manipur, Lalduhoma acknowledged the recurring nature of such incidents and stressed the necessity for finding a lasting solution through negotiation. He suggested that discussions involving the tribal population's demands should be held with the Union Home Ministry to reach a political resolution.
During an interactive session in Kolkata organized by the Merchants' Chamber of Commerce, Lalduhoma addressed questions about his government's role in facilitating discussions to stop violence in Manipur. He clarified that as an outsider, his government would not initiate such talks.
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Addressing the influx of internally displaced people (IDPs) from Manipur into Mizoram, Lalduhoma highlighted the humanitarian obligation to care for them. He assured that Mizoram is providing support to around 9,000 displaced people from Manipur, emphasizing that they are Indian citizens and not foreigners.
The Mizoram Home Department official reported that approximately 9,000 displaced individuals from Manipur are currently residing in Mizoram. The ethnic violence in Manipur, which erupted on May 3 last year during a 'Tribal Solidarity March,' has resulted in over 180 casualties and several hundred injuries. The march was organized in protest against the majority Meitei community's demand for Scheduled Tribe status.
