PRESIDENT Droupadi Murmu on Thursday said she is aware of the Manipur people’s pain because of the ethnic violence, and assured them that the Government is committed to strengthen harmony and ensure security. Describing the State as a land of resilience and courage, Murmu said that the Manipur people have enriched thenation by contributing immensely tothe diverse fields of sports, defence,art and culture, and public service.

 

This is Murmu’s first trip to the strife-tornState after becoming the President ofIndia. Addressing a gathering at a civicreception programme, she said, “I amaware of the pain that the people ofManipur have gone through followingthe unfortunate violence. I want toassure you that taking care of their concerns is the highest priority for us.” At least 260 people were killed and thousands homeless in clashes between the valleybased Meiteis and Kuki community of the hills since May 2023.

 

The State is now under President’s Rule. “My Government stands by every affected family. The Indian Government remains fully committed to strengthening harmony, ensuring security, and supporting Manipur in its journey towards stability and prosperity,” the President said. She added that the Valley and hills of the State were rich in natural beauty. Murmu witnessed a traditional polo match. Murmu watched the traditional ‘Sagol Kangjei’ exhibition match at the historic Mapal Kangjeibung or Imphal Polo Ground.

 

Manipur’s ‘Sagol Kangjei’ is considered the precursor to the modern polo game. Manipur Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla, Chief Secretary Puneet Kumar Goel and other senior officials were also present. “She was also given a ceremonial guard of honour by women personnel of Manipur Police at Imphal Airport, an official said. The people of Manipur are talented and hardworking, Murmu said, expressing confidence that communities from the valley and the hills would remain together with renewed harmony and advance towards greater heights of prosperity and happiness.