Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh has issued a public apology for the ethnic violence that plagued the state since May 2023, expressing deep regret for the suffering caused and pledging efforts to restore peace in the new year.
“This entire year has been very unfortunate. I feel regret and I want to say sorry to the people of the state for what has happened since May 3,” Singh said, acknowledging the immense loss of life and displacement. “Many people lost their loved ones, many people left their homes. I really feel regret and want to apologize.”
The violence, primarily between the Meitei community in the valley and the Kuki-Zo tribes in the hills, has resulted in over 250 deaths and left thousands displaced. The ethnic divide deepened throughout 2024, with widespread clashes, mob attacks, and even drone strikes.
Singh emphasized that despite the challenges, there has been “good progress” in restoring peace. “I hope that with the New Year 2025, normalcy and peace will be restored in the state,” he said, urging all communities to move forward and rebuild. “We now have to forget past mistakes and start a new life. A peaceful and prosperous Manipur, where we all live together, should be our goal.”
The Chief Minister also outlined efforts by the state government and the central administration to tackle the violence. “Till now, altogether roughly 200 people have died and around 12,247 FIRs were registered and 625 accused were arrested and around 5,600 arms and weapons were including explosives and around 35,000 ammunitions were recovered. Good progress is there in tackling the issues. The central government has provided enough security personnel and enough funds to help the displaced families and enough funds to construct new houses for the displaced persons…” Singh said.
The violence in Manipur has largely been fueled by tensions between the Meitei community, based in the Imphal Valley, and the Kuki-Zo tribes in the surrounding hilly regions. What began as localized clashes in May 2023 escalated in 2024, spreading to previously peaceful areas like Jiribam district, near Assam. In June, the discovery of a man's body in Jiribam triggered a fresh wave of violence, leading to widespread arson, gunfights, and the displacement of over 1,000 people.
With high and violent tensions within the communities, the state also faced challenges during the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. The first phase of voting in April was marred by violence, including shootings and intimidation, and allegations of booth capturing. However, the second phase passed peacefully.
Singh's apology comes as part of broader efforts to restore peace and rebuild the state. “We need to focus on peace and prosperity,” he stated, urging the people of Manipur to look beyond past divisions and work toward a united future.
(With agencies inputs)
