Manipur Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Leads Effort to Airlift Injured Kuki-Zo MLA for Treatment
In a rare and symbolic gesture aimed at fostering healing and reconciliation in the strife-torn state, Manipur Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand, along with two Bharatiya Janata Party legislators, personally saw off fellow BJP MLA Vungzagin Valte of the Kuki-Zo community at Imphal airport on Sunday. The legislator was airlifted to New Delhi for advanced medical treatment at a hospital in Gurugram, marking a significant moment of cross-community solidarity.
Background of the Attack and Valte's Injuries
Vungzagin Valte, who represents the Thanlon Assembly Constituency in Churachandpur district, suffered grievous injuries after being attacked by a mob in Imphal's Nagamapal area during the early days of the Manipur violence that erupted on May 3, 2023. Following prolonged treatment in Delhi, he had been residing in Churachandpur, but his health condition took a turn for the worse on Saturday, necessitating immediate medical intervention.
Swift Medical Response and Evacuation Efforts
Valte was admitted to the Intensive Care Unit at Churachandpur Medical College after his health deteriorated. Chief Minister Khemchand closely monitored his condition throughout the night, according to an official statement. In a proactive move, the CM dispatched an advanced life-support ambulance from Imphal around midnight, accompanied by a team of doctors, to ensure Valte received critical care.
Doctors in Imphal maintained constant communication with the medical team in Churachandpur via tele-conferencing to coordinate treatment. Taking personal charge of the situation, Chief Minister Khemchand arranged for an air ambulance to evacuate the BJP MLA, underscoring the urgency and importance of the medical mission.
Cross-Community Support and Airport Send-Off
At Phougakchao Ikhai in Bishnupur district, BJP MLAs Tongbram Robindro, representing Thanga AC, and Sanasam Premchandra, representing Kumbi AC, both from the Meitei community, received Valte and escorted him to Imphal airport. This act highlighted the bipartisan and inter-community support for the injured legislator.
Chief Minister Khemchand met Valte at the airport at 4:20 pm, where he interacted with the MLA's family members and wished him a speedy recovery. In a heartfelt message, the CM said, "Pu Valte, please come back after you have fully recovered. I will wait for your return." The CM and the accompanying legislators offered words of encouragement and prayed for his strength and recovery, fostering a sense of unity and hope.
Departure and Hopes for Peace in Manipur
The air ambulance departed from Imphal airport at 4:30 pm, carrying Valte to Delhi for specialized treatment. Speaking to the media after the send-off, MLA Tongbram Robindro emphasized that people across Manipur are praying for Valte's recovery. He expressed optimism that the legislator would return in good health to collaborate on efforts for peace and normalcy in the state.
Robindro added that sustained initiatives are underway under the leadership of the new Chief Minister to restore harmony in Manipur, reflecting a broader commitment to reconciliation and stability. This event serves as a poignant reminder of the ongoing challenges and the collective aspirations for healing in the region.
