NEIR for peace and dialogue amid Manipur crisis
REGIONAL: The North East Integration Rally (NEIR) has steadily emerged as an important platform for peace, dialogue and regional unity in the Northeast. As Manipur continues to grapple with prolonged unrest and social tension, the relevance of such initiatives has grown significantly.
Recent NEIR engagements have consistently highlighted one shared objective: the restoration of peace and harmony in Manipur.
During this period, the Governor of Manipur has repeatedly stressed the need for calm, unity and constructive engagement among communities. The approach closely aligns with NEIR’s approach, which focuses on dialogue-driven solutions rather than confrontation.
NEIR’s meetings are characterised by steady, serious discussions aimed at fostering understanding and trust.
As part of NEIR’s outreach, Meghalaya MLA, A L Hek visited Manipur and held a meeting with the Governor A. K Bhalla, during which the prevailing situation in the state and the urgent need for peace were discussed. The interaction highlighted the importance of regional cooperation and collective responsibility in addressing challenges faced by Manipur.
NEIR’s foundational emphasis on inclusive dialogue has been shaped by sustained efforts from those associated with the initiative since its inception. Biswadeep Gupta has played a key role in conceptualising and strengthening NEIR’s peace-oriented framework, with a consistent focus on dialogue, community participation and regional integration.
The platform has brought together social workers, community elders, youth representatives, civil society members, and lawmakers, enabling open conversations on loss, mistrust, and fear, while also fostering hope for reconciliation and coexistence.
In addition to institutional engagement, AL Hek, through his continued involvement in NEIR activities, has supported calls for restraint, trust-building, and rejection of violence. His participation has reinforced the message that peace in Manipur is a shared concern across the Northeast.
A recent NEIR appeal placed particular emphasis on Manipur calling for an immediate end to violence and urging all stakeholders to prioritise the protection of lives and respect for all communities. The appeal was humanitarian in nature, underscoring the belief that peace must come before political or ideological differences.
NEIR’s continued engagement through follow-up meetings, local-level interactions, and public appeals reflects its belief that peace-building is a long-term effort. Acting as a bridge between people and institutions, the platform promotes unity and understanding through sustained dialogue.
While the road to lasting peace in Manipur remains complex, initiatives like NEIR play a vital role in keeping dialogue alive during times of deep division. Through collective effort and regional solidarity, NEIR continues to reinforce a clear message: peace is essential and without it, progress cannot take root.