CM, legislators see off hurt Kuki-Zo MLA for treatment outside state

Imphal: In a rare gesture symbolising hopes of healing and reconciliation, Manipur CM Yumnam Khemchand and two BJP legislators saw off fellow legislator Vungzagin Valte of the Kuki-Zo community at Imphal airport on Sunday, as he was airlifted to New Delhi for advanced medical treatment at a hospital in Gurugram.

Valte, who represents Thanlon AC in Churachandpur district, had suffered grievous injuries after being attacked by a mob in Imphal’s Nagamapal area during the early days of the May 3, 2023, Manipur violence. Following prolonged treatment in Delhi, he had been staying in Churachandpur.


His health condition deteriorated on Saturday, prompting his admission to the ICU at Churachandpur Medical College. CM Khemchand monitored his condition through the night and dispatched an advanced life-support ambulance with a team of doctors from Imphal around midnight, according to an official statement. Doctors in Imphal remained in constant touch with the Churachandpur medical team via tele-conferencing. Taking personal charge, the CM arranged an air ambulance to evacuate the BJP MLA.

At Phougakchao Ikhai in Bishnupur district, BJP MLAs Tongbram Robindro (Thanga AC) and Sanasam Premchandra (Kumbi AC), both Meiteis, received him and escorted him to Imphal airport.

The CM met Valte at the airport at 4:20 pm, interacted with his family members, and wished him a speedy recovery.

“Pu Valte, please come back after you have fully recovered. I will wait for your return,” he said.

Offering words of encouragement, the CM and the legislators prayed for his strength and recovery. The air ambulance departed from Imphal airport at 4:30 pm.

Speaking to the media, MLA Tongbram Robindro said people are praying for Valte’s recovery and expressed hope that he would return in good health to work together for peace and normalcy in the state. He added that sustained efforts are underway under the leadership of the new CM to restore harmony in Manipur.