Actress Lin Laishram, known for her roles in films like “Mary Kom” and “Axone,” left Manipur at the age of nine due to the insurgency in the state.She always hoped to return one day, but now she is filled with fear for her parents who still live there amidst the ongoing violence.
Laishram criticized the film industry for its silence on the situation in Manipur, especially considering its vocal stance on international issues such as the Ukraine crisis.In an interview with a national media, she expressed her thoughts and concerns about the unrest in her home state.
She acknowledged that the state has a history of unrest, but she also noted the progress and development that had taken place over the years.Many of her friends had returned to Manipur to start new lives, establishing businesses and startups.
However, the recent violence has set the state back by two decades, leaving Laishram deeply saddened and distressed.
She questioned why the different communities in Manipur can’t coexist peacefully.
The conflict, rooted in historical factors such as land disputes and poppy cultivation, has persisted since the merger of Manipur with India.Laishram expressed her hope for normalcy to return to Manipur, recalling that even major events like the Miss India pageant were held there just a few months ago.
When asked about her family, she expressed grave concern for their well-being.The blockade of roads and highways has disrupted the supply of essential goods and medicines.
Her elderly parents, who have experienced violence throughout their lives, conveyed their shock at the current situation and the loss of humanity they witnessed.Laishram worried about their access to medication and the uncertainty of handling emergencies.
Laishram lamented the lack of response from the film industry and the intellectual fraternity towards the crisis in Manipur.She criticized their focus on international issues while ignoring the suffering within their own country.
She perceived this as discrimination and questioned why the northeast region is often overlooked.
Laishram believed the Manipur issue could have been resolved locally if the state government acted effectively.She urged the central government’s peace committee to act swiftly, highlighting the contrast between AI advancements and the fear-stricken lives of Manipuri children.She called for unity and collective efforts to bring peace.
