IMPHAL, January 19: Chief Minister Okram Ibobi Singh, while reiterating that taking the path of violence will never bring solution to any problem, said that a collective effort is the only way to find a peaceful solution to a problem.
The Chief Minister was speaking at the Golden Jubilee cum 46th General Conference of the Koren (Koireng) Youth Organization, Manipur celebrated today at Longa Koireng Village, Senapati District.
Violence will not bring solution to any issue as history says it all. Different communities should share healthy relationship to ensure peace and harmony in the State, the CM asserted. He said that misunderstanding and conflict amongst communities can be resolved by sitting together and holding peaceful talk.
Stressing that different communities in the State are all equal irrespective of their class and creed, Chief Minister O Ibobi stressed on the need for maintaining cordial relationship amongst the communities to usher in peace and tranquillity.
He said that in the event of any difficulties, problems confronting the State, it is the responsibility of the people to find a solution to it.
Stating that people from outside are not going to resolve issues pertaining to the State, the CM called upon the people to stay united against those vested interest individuals who are trying to spew venom to create animosity in the society.
The Chief Minister said that every community must possess the mandate to strengthen the sense of brotherhood to bring peace and harmony.
Underlining the secular set up of the country, Ibobi said that everyone is free to choose any religion they prefer adding that it would be close to sin to create division on the basis of religious differences.
Ibobi further asserted that we should not commit the blunder of looking down upon the minority communities, and added, that everyone is equal in the eyes of law and god.
He stated that even though Koren (Koireng) is a small community in size it has been equally contributing to the welfare and development of the State since time immemorial.
At the same time, he also lauded the tribe for preserving its custom and tradition till date.
Assuring to construct a road from Patsoi Lamkhai to Chiru Lamkhai, a primary health centre and a community hall in the village, the Chief Minister claimed that his government has been keeping its promises made, even though it may take some time to accomplish it.
The government will not give any assurance for any work if it cannot be fulfilled, he added.
IFC minister, Nagamthang Haokip said that Koren (Koireng) even though a small community like other tribes in other parts of the state, it is the responsibility of the government to protect and promote them.
Despite its small size, it can also show the other tribes how Koirengs are focussed on bringing peace, harmony and tranquillity in Manipur, he observed.
Inaugurating the event, the Chief Minister also unveiled a Golden Jubilee Monument and released a souvenir.
Cultural dances were also performed by various cultural troupes of Koireng including Langa Koireng Youth Club, Ngairang Youth Club, Utonglok Youth Club, Sadu Koireng Youth Club.
After the main function, a sports meet of Koren (Koireng) Youth Organization to be held till January 23rd was also inaugurated.
The features of the five day long function included event like sports, culture show, literary competition and discussion on various topics and peace & harmony, human rights, education, role of youth.