The Leimakhong Area Women Union (LAWU), on behalf of the entire community comprising 29 Kuki villages, has condemned the unfortunate Leimakhong Chingmang incident on the night of June 18 wherein five houses were burned down by unknown miscreants.
Vehemently condemning the incident, the LAWU stated that they do not condone any form of violence or arson in and around the Leimakhong area.
While extending an apology, particularly to the family of Akhon Abonmai of K Lungwuiram, whose house was also burned inadvertently, LAWU vice-president Hatpi Kipgen said that they own the mistake committed by unknown miscreants who do not imbibe the values of the community.
Extending solidarity to Akhon's family, Hatpi Kipgen also said that they understand the pain and trauma caused by the incident and assured everyone that they are committed to maintaining peace and harmony in the region.
Meanwhile, LAWU highlighted how the Kuki community has a history of being a peace-loving and inclusive community with Hatpi Kipgen recalling how they have been trying to maintain peace and harmony in the region since May 3 when the clash erupted.
As a gesture of goodwill, we released a man named A Yaima, ex-Pradhan of Khurkhul village who was caught while trying to burn down the Church at L Saronphai village, she said.
She continued that on May 4, an innocent boy named Haominthang Chongloi was killed by a mob, they released six men who were nabbed by an angry mob, and handed them over to their families the same day, unharmed.
She also said that they have opened the water supply though the Meitei community are yet to fulfil their part of the understanding to open up roads for their civil and medical supplies. She added that the Indian Army and the central forces are witnessed to their peaceful conduct, a reflection of our cultural values.
While expressing regret for the unfortunate incident, Hatpi Kipgen urged all communities to work towards maintaining peace and harmony in the region.
