Imphal/ July 18, 2023 (SPN) | Amidst the escalating violence plaguing Manipur, Titular King Maharaja Leishemba Sanajaoba emerges as a beacon of hope, urging communities to come forward and calls for unity to end the bloodshed.
In a heartfelt plea, Rajya Sabha Member, Maharaja Leishemba Sanajaoba, has called upon all communities to embrace the role of peacemakers and work towards ending the relentless violence that has gripped the Kuki and Meitei communities in Manipur.
The esteemed 4th Eegi Khongul Liba program, organized by the Meitei Pangal Eegi Khongul Liba Foundation, was held at the royal palace yesterday.
In his address as the chief guest, MP Sanajaoba acknowledged the alarming communal conflict but stressed that a closer examination would reveal a more nuanced truth behind the ongoing violence.
“Let us collectively condemn the heinous act of killing a Maring woman. It is essential to acknowledge and understand the identities of the Marings, Tangkhuls, and Kabuis to comprehend the root causes of such abominable incidents,” expressed the Rajya Sabha MP.
Leishemba Sanajaoba passionately emphasized that the Meiteis were not the instigators of the violence but were merely defending themselves. Despite this, he acknowledged the spreading of falsehoods and fabricated stories surrounding the conflict.
Undeterred by these malicious acts, the Rajya Sabha Member remained confident that the truth would ultimately prevail, enlightening the world.
Leishemba Sanajaoba recognized the opportunistic individuals exploiting the situation for personal vendettas and political mileage. He firmly asserted that putting an end to the ongoing violence was the best course of action for all parties involved.
Considering the immense suffering endured by all communities in Manipur due to this protracted violence, the titular king implored the Naga and Meitei Pangal communities to engage in dialogue with leaders from both the Kuki and Meitei communities. This concerted effort aimed to bring about an enduring resolution.
Dispelling misconceptions, Leishemba Sanajaoba highlighted the Meitei’s deep affinity for the old Kuki community, emphasizing that it was the actions of a few later arrivals that had disrupted the social fabric.
To restore peace and harmony among the 35 ethnic groups in the State, he calls for unity and collaboration. He cautioned that if no mediators stepped forward to halt the ongoing violence, the Meiteis might be compelled to take drastic measures.
“War is not the desire of the Meiteis. Our pursuit is peaceful coexistence with all ethnic groups,” affirmed Sanajaoba, advocating for peace.
In an effort to preserve identity and roots, Sanajaoba urged Meitei Pangals to embrace their respective surnames, recognizing the significance they held in upholding their cultural heritage.
The 4th Eegi Khongul Liba program witnessed a gathering of esteemed personalities. Besides, Maharaja Leishemba Sanajaoba as Chief Guest, Buyamayum Yaima Shah, the president of the Meitei Pangal Eegi Khongul Liba Foundation Manipur, and Dr. Dolaipham Raheijudin Sheikh (Oja Shamu), the Principal of Lilong Haoreibi College were also present.