Renowned boxing icon M C Mary Kom has appealed for the intervention of Union Home Minister Amit Shah to ensure the safety and security of Kom villages in Manipur, which have been caught in the crossfire of warring factions.
In a heartfelt letter addressed to Mr. Shah, Mary Kom emphasized the vulnerability of the Kom community, an indigenous tribe of Manipur and one of the smallest among the minority groups in the region.
Mary Kom lamented, “Our community finds itself sandwiched between two opposing factions, perpetually living under a cloud of suspicion and doubt from both sides. We are tragically ensnared in the midst of a multitude of problems. Due to our limited size as a minority tribe and inadequate internal administrative support, we have struggled to defend our territory against intrusions.”
Expressing the urgent need for assistance, the Padma Vibhushan awardee implored, “We humbly request the security forces to step in and prevent any further encroachment into our Kom villages.”
Mary Kom, a former member of the Rajya Sabha, earnestly appealed to all members of the Indian Army, paramilitary forces, and state security personnel to discharge their duties impartially. She urged them to work tirelessly in safeguarding the local population and preserving peace and harmony in the state.
Furthermore, Mary Kom issued a heartfelt plea to the people of Manipur, particularly the Meiteis and those belonging to the Kuki Zo community, to unite and cast aside their differences. She stressed the importance of restoring peace and normalcy in the state, emphasizing that coexistence is essential. “Let us set aside our disparities and heal our wounds together,” she urged passionately.
In conclusion, Mary Kom’s letter to Union Home Minister Amit Shah serves as a poignant reminder of the pressing need to protect the vulnerable Kom community and restore peace in Manipur through unity and cooperation among its diverse inhabitants.
