Manipur Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh on Sunday asserted that Narendra Modi has played a key role in safeguarding Manipur’s territorial integrity, while campaigning for BJP candidates in Assam ahead of the Assembly polls.

Addressing an election rally in Rongpur under Udharbond constituency in Cachar district, the Chief Minister campaigned for BJP candidate Rajdeep Goala and urged the Manipuri community in Assam to place their trust in the BJP government led by Himanta Biswa Sarma. He lauded Sarma for recognizing Manipuri as an associate official language in the state.

Praising the Manipuri population of Barak Valley, Khemchand Singh said the community has played a significant role in preserving the culture and traditions of Manipur. He noted that Cachar has historically shared strong ties with Manipur, adding that Manipuris in the region have contributed to key issues, including the Inner Line Permit (ILP) and the inclusion of Manipuri in the Eighth Schedule of the Constitution.

Criticizing the Congress for allegedly neglecting the North East during its tenure, the Chief Minister said such policies led to unrest in the region. In contrast, he credited the BJP for prioritizing development in the North East and highlighted that the Ministry for Development of North Eastern Region (DoNER) was established under former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee.

Recalling his earlier association with Assam, Khemchand Singh said he founded the All Assam Taekwondo Association in 1982 and travelled extensively across districts such as Nalbari, Dibrugarh, and Cachar to promote the sport. “Assam holds a special place in my heart,” he added.

The Chief Minister was accompanied by seven BJP MLAs and Manipur BJP president A. Sharda Devi, who also addressed the gathering.

Later, Khemchand Singh campaigned at Laishram Khun in Jaribon under Hailakandi constituency, seeking support for BJP candidate Dr. Milon Das. He reiterated that the BJP views the North East as integral to India’s development and cited the growth of Guwahati under BJP rule.

Dr. Milon Das, addressing the gathering, assured voters that he would work towards fulfilling the demand for a Manipuri Autonomous Council in Assam.

Speaking at the event, A. Sharda Devi noted that Khemchand Singh’s visit marked a rare occasion, recalling that only former Chief Ministers M. Koireng Singh and Rishang Keishing had previously visited the area in similar capacity.

AGP state secretary Koijam Sapon Singh also spoke at the programme.

During his visit, the Chief Minister paid tribute at the samadhi of Naoria Phullo in Jaribon and interacted with his family members.