Manipur Chief Minister N. Biren Singh issued a heartfelt apology to the people of the state, expressing deep regret for the ethnic violence that has plagued Manipur since May 2023. In a statement, Singh described the year as “very unfortunate” and conveyed his sorrow over the ongoing conflict.
“This entire year has been very unfortunate. I feel regret and want to say sorry to the people of the state for what has been happening since May 3. Many people lost their loved ones, and many have been displaced from their homes. I truly feel regretful and would like to apologize," Singh said, as quoted by ANI.
Looking forward, the Chief Minister expressed optimism about the progress made in recent months. “I hope that with the New Year 2025, normalcy and peace will be restored in the state. I appeal to all communities that whatever happened is in the past. We must move forward, forget past mistakes, and work towards a peaceful and prosperous Manipur where everyone lives together in harmony,” he added.
Background of the Manipur Conflict
The ethnic violence, primarily involving the Meitei and Kuki communities, initially centered around Imphal Valley and nearby districts. However, the unrest spread to the relatively calm Jiribam district in June 2023 following the death of a man, which escalated tensions. The incident triggered widespread violence, including arson, gunfights, and the torching of homes, leaving more than 1,000 people internally displaced.
The conflict also highlighted the proliferation of weapons smuggled across the Myanmar border. Officials reported the recovery of various Myanmar-manufactured firearms, bulletproof vests, and military fatigues from militant groups and their hideouts in the state.
According to a PTI report, over 250 lives have been lost, and thousands have been rendered homeless in the ethnic clashes between the Meiteis, predominantly based in the Imphal Valley, and the Kuki-Zo groups, residing in the adjoining hill districts.
Path to Reconciliation
As tensions ease, Singh’s apology and call for reconciliation aim to foster dialogue and unity among the state’s diverse communities. While the scars of the conflict remain, the Chief Minister’s appeal underscores a collective effort to heal and rebuild a peaceful Manipur in the coming year.
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