Amid unrest, MMA champion Koren promoted by CM Biren Singh

Imphal: Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh has recognized mixed martial artist Chungreng Koren as a source of pride for the state.
Corin recently captured the interim Bantamweight title at Matrix Fight Night (MFN) 14, showcasing his prowess in the ring.
At a function held to honor Koren’s achievement, CMN Biren Singh praised the fighter for bringing glory to Manipur through his outstanding performance in the world of mixed martial arts (MMA).
The felicitation comes amid a backdrop of unrest in the state, with ethnic clashes raging in Manipur for months.
Chungreng Koren’s win is particularly significant as he dedicated his championship belt to his home state, and expressed concern over the ongoing violence.
Koren took this opportunity to appeal directly to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and urged him to intervene in Manipur and restore peace.
Furthermore, he extended a hearty invitation to the Prime Minister to visit Manipur and observe the situation for himself.

In an emotional appeal captured in an undated video purportedly after a bout at MFN, Koren underscored the urgent need for peace restoration in Manipur. He highlighted the dire consequences of the prolonged violence, emphasizing the hardships faced by the people, including food and water shortages in relief camps and disruptions to education.

The unrest in Manipur has persisted since May last year, resulting in more than 200 casualties and displacing nearly 50,000 individuals. Authorities report a deteriorating situation, with underground militant groups gaining support amidst the escalating ethnic tensions.

The recent violence erupted following a “Tribal Solidarity March” in the hill districts, protesting against the Meitei community’s demand for Scheduled Tribe (ST) status. The clash of interests has exacerbated existing tensions, plunging Manipur into a state of turmoil.

Despite the challenges facing the region Chungreng Koren’s victory and his impassioned plea for peace serve as a beacon of hope amidst adversity. As Manipur grapples with unrest, his call for intervention resonates with the urgency for swift action to restore stability and harmony in the state.