NSCN(IM) Leader Th Muivah Returns to Manipur After 50 Years

Ukhrul/Imphal/Churachandpur, Oct 14 (PTI) Preparations are gaining momentum for the much-anticipated visit of NSCN(IM) leader Th Muivah to his birthplace in Ukhrul district, Manipur, marking his first return in 50 years. Muivah, now 91, is scheduled to visit his home village, Somdal, located in the predominantly Tangkhul Naga area of Ukhrul, on October 22.

Efforts are in full swing by village authorities, Tangkhul Naga student groups, civil society organizations, and the church to extend a warm welcome to Muivah, who resides in Dimapur, Nagaland. "Villagers have adorned the area with posters welcoming the Naga leader, who is expected to stay for a week before returning to Dimapur," an official from Ukhrul district informed PTI.

"Community prayer meetings, cultural program rehearsals, and public gatherings are being organized to ensure the visit is a success," the official added. Muivah's previous attempt to visit in 2010 was thwarted by the then Congress government in Manipur, under Okram Ibobi Singh, causing widespread Naga protests. Heavy police deployment at the Manipur-Nagaland border prevented his entry.

Born in 1934, Th Muivah is synonymous with the modern Naga political movement and remains a pivotal figure among the Naga people. His Tangkhul Naga roots add further significance to his return. Maringthei Muivah, a childhood friend, expressed excitement, noting, "We have awaited his return keenly. He was always a man of courage and wisdom, years ahead in his thinking even during his youth."

Somdal village headman RVS Phungnang added, "As the village chief, this is a profoundly joyful moment., shared by all the villagers." The Somdal Students' Organisation's president, Kharmi Shimrang, said, "We grew up with his story." His visit has also garnered support from the Kuki, Zomi, and Meitei communities in Manipur.

Meitei Leepun, a socio-cultural body, remarked, "The Centre's decision to allow his return to his ancestral village after more than 50 years is wise and compassionate. The event holds deep emotional and historical meaning for the people of Manipur." The Zomi Reunification Organisation added, "It is euphoric to learn that Shri Th Muivah has been permitted to visit his birthplace after 50 years of exile." "Considering the hardships and betrayals he has endured, he truly deserves a red-carpet welcome," the statement added.

The United Kuki Liberation Front (UKLF), which is under a suspension of operations agreement with the government, has welcomed Muivah's visit. In a statement, the UKLF expressed hope that his homecoming would foster deeper understanding and strengthen relationships between communities.

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