Chandel: Thongam Biswajit Singh on Monday said Manipur requires strong governance that listens to the voices of its people and leads with empathy. He emphasised that responsibility and resolute leadership would help heal the state and bring an end to the current period of uncertainty.
MLA Biswajit made these remarks as the chief guest at a one-day get-together for peace and harmony-cum-music concert held at Panchai Town Hall in Chandel district headquarters. The event, organised under the theme “Heal Our Land”, was organised by the All Tribal Film Organisation, Manipur (ATFOM) and hosted by the Kankhu Film & Entertainment Society, Chandel.
The Thongju Assembly Constituency legislator highlighted that Manipur is an ancient civilisation and that, for generations, communities have lived together, sometimes with differences but always with a shared destiny.
Referring to the recent crisis in the state, MLA Biswajit said the situation had tested the patience, tolerance and humanity of the people. He acknowledged that many have lost their homes, trust between communities has been shaken, and innocent lives have suffered as a result.
MLA Biswajit said hatred cannot heal hatred, violence cannot correct violence, and lawlessness cannot build a future. He stressed that history teaches societies heal not through hatred, but through courage, compassion and collective wisdom.
Emphasising the urgent need for lasting peace, the MLA said the only path forward is peace rooted in justice, guided by responsible reconciliation and governance backed by the rule of law.
“The call to ‘Heal Our Land’ is not merely symbolic; it is both a moral and political responsibility. Healing does not begin only in government offices or peace talks. Healing begins when we choose dialogue over destruction, restraint over revenge, and unity over division. Our elders and traditions have always taught us a powerful principle: forget and forgive,” he asserted.
Speaking on the occasion, MLA Biswajit said music and culture, which were being celebrated at the event, are powerful forces of unity. He noted that in Manipur, music transcends entertainment, serving as a vessel for memory, resistance and hope. However, he also stressed that harmony fostered by culture must be protected by law and order and effective governance.
“From Chandel, let us send a powerful message to the entire Manipur,” he said.
The event brought together leaders, artistes and cultural dance troupes representing various communities, highlighting both the unity and the rich diversity of the state’s culture.
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