Manipur to form committee representing all 36 communities for unity: Yumnam Khemchand

Imphal, October 19, 2026 - In a bid to promote unity and peace in the strife-hit region of Manipur, Chief Minister Khemchand Yumnam announced the formation of a committee representing the 36 communities in the state, according to ANI. The proposal followed a query from Prime Minister Narendra Modi regarding the existence of such a committee to bring all communities together.

Kuki-Zo groups have been demanding the reimposition of President’s Rule in Manipur, as 32 members of their community have reportedly died in ethnic violence since March, and economic embargoes have negatively impacted Kuki-Zo villages. Speaking at an event to felicitate hill chiefs of different tribes at the Chief Minister's Secretariat, Yumnam emphasized that all communities have contributed to defending and safeguarding Manipur, citing examples such as the Anglo-Manipur War and the Seven Years Devastation.

The Chief Minister expressed hope that the Mera Hou Chongba festival would usher in peace and prosperity while strengthening the spirit of brotherhood among the hills and the valley. The guest house inaugurated as part of the festival is seen as a symbol of brotherhood between the two regions. Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge criticized the BJP's governance, criticizing their failure to prevent the recent spate of violence that led to the deaths of four civilians.