L Mangminmgam, a 12-year-old budding boxer found himself alone in the SAI hostel on the morning of 4th May.

Mangminmgam, who was born to a Kuki mother and a Meitei father, was unaware of the growing tension between the two communities. Clashes broke out at Churachandpur the day before and quickly spread to Imphal that very night. Mangminmgam was separated from his parents who were hiding in their native village of Saikul at Kangpokpi, North Imphal. 

Mangminmgam was stuck in the hostel for four days. After that, he decided to run away to his parents. He crossed the disturbed areas and ran through the lush green valleys and mountains for 15 km. The class seven student ultimately reached an Assam Rifles camp late on 8th May. 

Mangminmgam was reunited with his parents after Assam Rifle personnel took him to his village. His father, Shyam Lairaklaktham, a Meitei farmer, and his mother Hatnu were surprised at Mangminmgam's return. He is now the symbol of hope to the villagers, army, and Assam Rifle amid the clash between Kuki and Meitei communities which has killed over 60 people and around 3500 people have been displaced.

In an interview with the Times of India, Mangminmgam said, "I don't know how far I ran. It was daytime I just ran to safety." A tweet from Dimapur-based Armey's Crops (3rd Crop) described him as a testimony to the peaceful coexistence of all communities in Manipur. They also appreciated him for his brave 15 km run and reach an army camp. The army has also tweeted a short video on Mangminmgam's training at the army camp. They also said, "Indian Army and Assam Rifle salute his grit and determination and wish him all the happiness and luck for his boxing endeavor."