Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh Apologises for Ethnic Conflict and Urges Communities to Start Afresh

Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh expressed regret over the ethnic conflict in the state, which resulted in over 250 deaths and left thousands homeless. He urged communities to forgive past mistakes and start anew. Singh noted that relative peace in recent months gives hope for normalcy in the coming year. "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 apologise," he stated.

Singh highlighted a decrease in firing incidents since May 2023, with 408 reported from May to October 2023, 345 from November 2023 to April 2024, and 112 since May this year. He mentioned that 3,112 looted weapons have been recovered, and 2,511 explosives seized. Additionally, 625 arrests have been made, and 12,247 FIRs registered. Seventeen security companies are stationed along the Imphal-Mao-Dimapur National Highway, with another 18 along the Imphal-Jiribam-Silchar National Highway.

Efforts to Restore Peace

The Chief Minister announced plans for an Aadhaar-linked birth registration service in three districts. This initiative aims to capture children's data from birth for accurate demographic records. A newborn's Aadhaar number will be linked to the mother's, helping protect the indigenous population long-term. Singh also mentioned that Rs 30 crore has been allocated for relief camp residents, with Rs 1,000 per person distributed in five instalments.

Congress leader Jairam Ramesh questioned why Prime Minister Narendra Modi hasn't visited Manipur despite travelling extensively elsewhere. Ramesh accused Modi of neglecting the state deliberately. In response, Singh accused Congress of politicising his apology and blamed them for past issues causing current turmoil. "The apology I extended today was a sincere act of expressing my grief for the people who have been left displaced and become homeless," Singh said.

Support for Displaced Families

Singh stated that through government efforts, 2,058 displaced families comprising 7,549 individuals have returned home. The government has released Rs 280 crore for relief camp operations so far. A compensatory package of Rs 32 crore has been granted to affected farmers. Weekly medical checkups are conducted in relief camps, with 18,911 visits made so far, providing essential medicines to inmates.

Students in relief camps receive free admission to government schools and colleges. For those attending private institutions, the government covers half of their expenses. Employment support programs prioritise camp residents unable to find work. The Chief Minister’s Coaching Scheme offers entrance exam preparation for professional courses.

Political Reactions

Manipur Congress Legislature Party leader Okram Ibobi Singh criticised both state and central governments for failing to resolve the ongoing violence over the past 19 months. He emphasised that the state assembly is the appropriate forum for discussing solutions to Manipur's crisis.

The BJP-led government claims improved law and order since taking office. It has acted as a mediator between insurgent groups and the Centre to initiate peace talks. The government has procured bulletproof vehicles and heavy weapons to combat armed militants.

The ethnic violence between Imphal Valley-based Meiteis and Kuki-Zo groups from nearby hills began in May last year. The conflict has claimed more than 250 lives and displaced thousands.