Key Points
- CM Apologizes: N Biren Singh expresses regret for the ethnic conflict that claimed over 250 lives and displaced thousands.
- Appeal for Unity: Urges communities to “forgive and forget” past mistakes for a peaceful and prosperous Manipur.
- Decline in Violence: Firing incidents have dropped significantly over the past year, signaling hope for normalcy.
- Recovery Efforts: Over 3,100 looted weapons and 2,500 explosives have been seized.
- Legal Actions: 625 arrests made and 12,047 FIRs registered since the violence erupted in May 2023.
Manipur: Chief Minister N Biren Singh has extended a heartfelt apology to the people of the state for the devastating ethnic conflict that has plagued the region since May 2023. The conflict, which erupted between the Meitei community of the Imphal Valley and the Kuki-Zo groups of the adjoining hills, resulted in over 250 deaths and left thousands homeless.
A Sincere Apology and Hope for Reconciliation
Addressing the media on Tuesday, Singh expressed deep remorse for the tragic events and appealed for unity among all communities.
“I want to say sorry for what happened in the state. Many people lost their loved ones, and many had to leave their homes. I regret and want to apologize,” Singh said.
The Chief Minister emphasized the importance of moving forward and rebuilding the state together:
“Whatever happened has happened. I appeal to all communities to forgive and forget our past mistakes and start life afresh by living together in a peaceful and prosperous Manipur.”
Encouraging Signs of Peace
Singh highlighted the relative peace observed over the last three to four months, fueling optimism for the new year.
Since the violence began:
- Firing incidents have decreased significantly:
- May–October 2023: 408 incidents reported.
- November 2023–April 2024: 345 incidents.
- May 2024–Present: 112 incidents.
Weapons Recovery and Legal Actions
Efforts to restore law and order have yielded notable progress:
- 3,112 looted weapons and 2,511 explosives have been recovered.
- 625 individuals have been arrested.
- Authorities have registered 12,047 FIRs to address the conflict’s fallout.
A Long Road to Recovery
The ethnic clashes, which began in May 2023, were rooted in long-standing tensions between the Meitei majority and the Kuki-Zo tribal communities. The violence displaced thousands, creating a humanitarian crisis that the state is still grappling with.
Despite the challenges, the Chief Minister’s apology and appeal for unity mark a critical step toward healing. Singh’s acknowledgment of the state’s shared pain underscores his commitment to fostering peace and reconciliation.
As Manipur steps into 2025, the focus shifts to rebuilding trust and creating a future where all communities can coexist harmoniously in a peaceful and thriving state.
