Scindia Urges Peaceful Coexistence Amid Manipur Violence

Union Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia called for peaceful coexistence between the Meitei and Kuki communities in Manipur at the North East Students Festival. The event highlighted both ongoing ethnic violence and significant development strides in the northeastern region, emphasizing increased connectivity and economic opportunities.

Union Minister for Communications and Development of North Eastern Region Jyotiraditya Scindia addressed the ongoing violence in Manipur, urging the Meitei and Kuki communities to coexist peacefully. Scindia emphasized unity in diversity during the North East Students Festival, pointing out the decades-long ethnic issue.

Since May 3 last year, Manipur has witnessed ethnic violence following a tribal solidarity march protesting the Meitei community's demand for Scheduled Tribe status. Over 220 lives have been lost, including members of both communities and security personnel.

In discussing northern development, Scindia announced initiatives to connect 25,000 villages lacking mobile networks by next year and highlighted substantial growth in regional investments. He noted an 11-fold increase in railway investments, the rise in the number of airports from 9 to 17, and a significant boost in weekly flights.

Scindia also announced the upcoming Ashtalakshmi Mahotsav to showcase the culture and economic potential of the northeast, covering areas like sports and entrepreneurship.

(With inputs from agencies.)