Nagaland, Mizoram must lead in fostering peace in Manipur — Fr. Fernandes

DIMAPUR — The North East Institute of Social Sciences and Research (NEISSR), Chümoukedima, hosted a session on ‘Developing peace process in Manipur,’ featuring Fr. Walter Fernandes, a professor at the North Eastern Social Research Centre in Guwahati.

According to a press release, the event, held at the NEISSR hall, brought together researchers, students, and Peace Channel members to delve into the question of ‘how’ to foster peace.

In his speech, Fernandes emphasised the critical role that Nagaland and Mizoram must play in initiating the peace process.

He stressed that peace is not solely achievable through political actions but necessitates the active involvement of civil society groups, researchers, and students. According to Fr. Fernandes, true peace transcends the absence of armed conflict and embodies the creation of a just and harmonious society.

The professor highlighted the significance of fostering dialogue among diverse communities, such as the Kukis and Nagas, grounded in principles of generosity, unity, and justice.

He proposed the initiation of a dialogue between the Nagas and Kukis in Manipur, with the Nagas of Nagaland taking the lead. Together, they could approach Meitei civil society groups for dialogue to envision a new Manipur characterised by peace and justice, he said.

Fernandes urged for collective action, expressing confidence that facing the challenges of dialogue with communities in Manipur could pave the way for reconciliation. He envisioned the Nagas engaging with Naga groups in Manipur and the Mizos dialoguing with the Kukis, fostering a sense of unity.

While acknowledging that this process may take time, he stressed the need for a spirit of challenge, generosity, and hope to guide Manipur towards reconciliation, justice, and resource sharing.

He urged everyone to come together, discuss actionable steps, and not leave the people of Manipur to fend for themselves. He called for initiatives from Nagaland to support people in Manipur, offering hope, forgiveness, and reconciliation as paths towards a shared future.

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