A viral video featuring mixed martial arts fighter Chungreng Koren from Manipur has caught the attention of social media users. In the clip, Koren passionately appeals to Prime Minister Narendra Modi to visit the northeastern state, which has been grappling with ethnic violence, and help restore peace.
The undated video captures Koren’s emotional plea, reportedly following a bout at Matrix Fight Night (MFN). He expresses concern over the violence that has plagued Manipur for nearly a year, leading to loss of lives, displacement of thousands, and dire conditions in relief camps. Koren urges Modi to intervene and address the pressing issues faced by the people of Manipur.
Youth Congress president Srinivas BV shared the video on X (formerly Twitter), lamenting the situation in Manipur and suggesting that greater attention from the Prime Minister could alleviate the suffering of its citizens.
ये Chungreng Koren हैं। चैंपियन खिलाड़ी हैं।
जीत मिली तो PM मोदी से गुहार लगाई कि मणिपुर में हिंसा को करीब 1 साल हो गया है। आप मणिपुर जाइए। लोगों का भविष्य ख़तरे में है। कुछ करिए..
वैसे मुझे तो नहीं लगता कि चुनाव से पहले वो ऐसा कुछ करेंगे।#MatrixFightNight14 pic.twitter.com/gNOvsFmuLp
— Govind Pratap Singh | GPS (@govindprataps12) March 11, 2024
As of now, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has not issued an official statement regarding the matter.
Ethnic violence in Manipur has escalated since May of the previous year, resulting in over 200 casualties and displacing nearly 50,000 individuals. The conflict stems from tensions between the Meitei community, primarily residing in the Imphal Valley, and tribal groups such as Nagas and Kukis, who inhabit the hill districts. The unrest intensified following a “Tribal Solidarity March” protesting the Meitei community’s demand for Scheduled Tribe (ST) status.’
ये है Manipur के Chungreng Koren..
काश प्रधानमंत्री के लिए Manipur उनके परिवार का हिस्सा होता तो आज शायद Manipur का हर नागरिक रोने को मजबूर नही होता। pic.twitter.com/OWhYTdShDG
— Srinivas BV (@srinivasiyc) March 11, 2024
In a recent incident, a serving junior commissioned officer (JCO) of the Indian Army was reportedly abducted by armed men from Thoubal district and later rescued by security forces. The Army confirmed the rescue and stated that the JCO is currently under investigation by Manipur Police.
The situation in Manipur remains tense, with underground militant groups gaining support amidst the ongoing violence. The plea from Chungreng Koren and others underscores the urgency for decisive action to restore peace and stability in the region.