Imphal, Manipur, June 5 (HBTV): A Naga candidate in Manipur who contested the Lok Sabha elections landed a massive victory from an electorate that is believed to be comprised largely of two communities that have been in conflict since May 2023. Alfred Kangnam S Arthur, the man from Ukhrul district in Manipur, is in a unique position — he received votes from both the hill-based Kuki and the valley-based Meitei community.

Arthur contested the election in outer Manipur Lok Sabha Constituency on a Indian National Congress’ ticket. He defeated his nearest rival Kachui Timothy Zimik of the Naga People’s Front by a huge margin of approximately 85, 418 votes.

Talking during the sidelines of a reception ceremony, Arthur said he got maximum votes from all communities be it Muslims, Meitei, Naga or Kuki so. As a member of parliament, his role is crucial and secured a very high profile this time. 

Kuki Zo community decided to refrain from fielding any candidate as a mark of protest against the government’s alleged failure to resolve ethic violence in the state.