Imphal, Aug 28: Assam Rifles, in collaboration with Manipur University, organised a seminar on “Manipur Situation: Prevailing Trust Deficit and Path Towards Trust Building” at MFDS Hall in Imphal East on Friday, bringing together government officials, security personnel, researchers and other stakeholders for discussions on restoring confidence and strengthening social harmony.

The seminar was attended by Manipur Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh, Director General Assam Rifles Lt Gen Vikas Lakhera, researcher Sudeep Chakravarti, senior civil officials and representatives of security forces.
Nearly 400 stakeholders participated in the event, which provided a platform for exchanging views on the challenges facing Manipur and exploring possible pathways towards rebuilding trust among communities and institutions.
The discussions centred on the need for sustained dialogue and confidence-building measures to address the prevailing trust deficit. Participants also deliberated on issues relating to disarmament, rehabilitation of internally displaced persons (IDPs), institutional harmony and restoration of normalcy.
The seminar sought to move the conversation beyond immediate challenges and focus on long-term measures capable of creating an environment of peace, cooperation and mutual confidence.
The participation of representatives from civil administration, academia, security forces and other sections of society was aimed at encouraging a broader and more inclusive dialogue. Such engagement can help bring diverse perspectives to the table and identify areas where coordinated efforts are required.
The presence of Manipur University provided an academic platform for examining the complex social and institutional dimensions of the situation. Researchers and other participants contributed perspectives on the causes of the trust deficit and the importance of dialogue in rebuilding relationships.
Discussions on IDP rehabilitation also highlighted the importance of restoring a sense of security and stability among affected families. Participants emphasised that rehabilitation and reconciliation need sustained institutional support and community participation.
The seminar also underscored the importance of institutional harmony, with stakeholders discussing the need for different institutions and agencies to work in coordination towards peace and public welfare.
Assam Rifles said the initiative was intended to foster dialogue, understanding, trust and hope, while encouraging stakeholders to collectively work towards a peaceful future for Manipur.
The event concluded with an emphasis on continued engagement and constructive dialogue as essential components of the trust-building process. The participation of a wide cross-section of stakeholders reflected a shared recognition that lasting peace requires cooperation among communities, civil institutions, security agencies and civil society.
The seminar marked an effort to create a meaningful platform for discussion at a time when rebuilding trust remains central to Manipur’s journey towards stability, reconciliation and normalcy.