Bodoland Territorial Council (BTC) Chief and United People’s Party Liberal (UPPL) president Pramod Boro has expressed deep concern over the continuing violence in Manipur, which has led to significant loss of life and widespread destruction. In a heartfelt appeal made on Wednesday, Boro urged all factions involved to abandon violence and embrace humanity, emphasizing the need for peaceful dialogue and resolution.”The violence in Manipur must stop,” Boro said. “In the 21st century, there is no place for violence. The immediate consequence of violence is destruction—not just of the physical world, but of the very fabric of society. When one community targets another, it results in mutual harm, deepening divisions that have long-lasting effects.”
Reflecting on global conflicts, Boro called for introspection, urging those engaged in violence to consider the future consequences. “History has shown us that nations once at war have come together as allies, while former allies have turned into adversaries. In Manipur, as elsewhere, violence only breeds more violence. We must stop before it harms future generations. If we don’t, the suffering will continue for our children,” he stated. Boro acknowledged the efforts of the Indian government to mediate the situation but stressed the need for cooperation between the Meitei and Kuki communities. “The government is working to support both communities, but lasting peace can only come through mutual understanding and compromise. Both sides must recognize their shared responsibility for the future. If this realization is not reached, we may be forced to seek external intervention,” he warned.
Drawing from his own experiences in Bodoland, Boro reflected on the region’s troubled past, recalling the conflicts of 1996 and 2012. “The scars of past violence still affect Bodoland today. It has taken years to begin healing, and it will take time to restore normalcy. Those who truly care about their community’s future must reject violence and work for peace,” he urged. Boro made a passionate call for peace, urging all parties to work towards ending the violence by the end of 2024. “As we approach the new year, let us leave behind the destruction of violence and step into 2025 with renewed hope. Together, we can build a better, more peaceful future for our children and our nation,” he said.