Imphal, May 31 (UNI) Twenty-three BJP MLAs have decided to call for peace following a meeting held at the residence of former Minister Th Biswajit on Friday night. The MLAs said in a joint statement that in light of the prevailing situation in Manipur, the legislators deliberated on the collective role in restoring peace, stability, and normalcy in the state.
The MLAs noted the enormous suffering endured by the people of Manipur over the past two years. "As elected representatives, the BJP MLAs are united in the firm belief that a long-term solution to the crisis is both possible and necessary," said the joint statement.
"Such a solution must rest on the pillars of political will, inclusive dialogue, constitutional safeguards, and impartial enforcement of law and order. It is our collective conviction that this journey must be undertaken in close cooperation between the Centre, the state, civil society, and community leaders" the statement added.
During the deliberations, the MLAs examined ways for an inclusive dialogue involving representatives of all communities. They supported the establishment of a neutral dialogue platform to facilitate constructive mediation between the Meitei and Kuki-Zo communities, aimed at building trust and consensus on critical issues.
In regard to the Gwaltabi incident on May 20, it urged the government to have dialogue with the media persons and civil society organisations to develop amicable understanding.
The meeting also considered the feasibility of formally approaching the governor and the Central leadership to appoint a neutral peace envoy or a panel of eminent persons, comprising voices from both within and outside Manipur. Such a body, operating with the full support of the Union government and state administration, would play a vital role in facilitating impartial mediation and bridging the trust deficit among communities.
It emphasized the critical importance of inter-community dialogue at the grassroots level. "This will lay the foundation for healing, mutual respect, and peaceful coexistence," the statement emphasised.
It also called for a well-monitored effort to recover looted weapons.
Acknowledging the deep public desire to see the formation of a popular government, it discussed pathways to achieve this with unity and selflessness. It resolved to put aside personal ambitions in the larger interest of the state, its people, and the vision of the BJP and its alliance partners in Manipur.
It said the MLAs are committed to peace, justice, and the restoration of communal harmony in Manipur. The MLAs had earlier briefed Governor AK Bhalla about the need to restore a popular government in the state.
UNI NS PRS