Meghalaya Chief Minister and National People’s Party (NPP) president Conrad K. Sangma arrived in Imphal on Thursday for a two-day visit focused on assessing the prevailing situation in Manipur and exploring avenues to foster peace and reconciliation.
Landing at Imphal International Airport around 12:45 pm, Sangma addressed the media, stating that his visit is centered on engaging with community leaders, civil society organisations, and displaced residents to gain a deeper understanding of the challenges on the ground.
“Efforts have been made to address the crisis, and while some headway has been achieved, significant hurdles remain,” Sangma said. “We believe that sustained dialogue and inclusive engagement are essential to achieving lasting peace.”
Responding to questions about the NPP’s political ambitions in Manipur, Sangma underscored that the party’s immediate focus is on restoring stability. “Elections are not our priority right now. We are here to serve the people and help bring back normalcy,” he remarked.
Sangma is accompanied by senior party leaders including Paknga Bage, NPP’s National General Secretary (Organisation); Saidul Khan, National Secretary; and Nickey Nongkhlaw, president of the National People’s Youth Front.
As per the itinerary, Sangma’s first engagement was a meeting with Meitei civil society groups at Hotel Classic Grande, followed by discussions with Naga CSOs scheduled for 1:45 pm. Later in the afternoon, he met with internally displaced persons (IDPs) from Moreh, Churachandpur, and other conflict-affected areas currently residing in the valley.
At 5 pm, Sangma is slated to meet Manipur Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla at Raj Bhavan to deliberate on strategies for peace-building and rehabilitation. The day will conclude with a party meeting at 7 pm, where NPP legislators, state office-bearers, and functionaries will convene to discuss organisational matters and long-term plans ahead of the 2027 Assembly elections.
On Friday, Sangma will hold a press briefing before departing for Dimapur. En route, he is expected to interact with Kuki CSOs and displaced families in Kangpokpi, and will also pay a visit to the residence of the late NPP Manipur president N Kayisii in Senapati for a commemorative lunch.
Sangma’s visit comes at a critical juncture as Manipur continues to grapple with ethnic tensions and displacement, with political and civil society actors seeking collaborative solutions to restore harmony.
