After nearly 19 months of relentless violence, Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh has publicly apologized for the devastating ethnic clashes between the Kuki and Meitei communities. The conflict, which first erupted on May 3, 2023, has continued despite heavy deployment of armed forces, leaving a trail of destruction and loss.
More than 200 lives have been lost, and over 11,000 First Information Reports (FIRs) were initially filed. However, this figure was reduced to 3,000 last month after authorities cited overlapping complaints and duplications due to zero-hour FIRs.
On Tuesday evening, CM N Biren Singh broke his silence, offering a heartfelt apology to the people of Manipur. "This entire year has been very unfortunate. I want to say sorry to the people of the state for what's happening since last May 3. Many people lost their loved ones, and many were forced to leave their homes. I deeply regret and apologize," Singh stated.
Expressing cautious optimism, Singh added, "I hope after seeing the progress made in the last three to four months, by 2025, normalcy will return to our beloved state."
Appealing for unity, Singh urged all 35 tribes in Manipur to move beyond past grievances. "Whatever happened has happened. We must forgive, forget, and work together for a peaceful and prosperous Manipur," he said.
The roots of the violence trace back to the Meitei community's demand for Scheduled Tribe (ST) status, which was strongly opposed by the Kuki tribal community. The Meiteis, who constitute 53% of Manipur's population and predominantly reside in the Imphal Valley, found themselves at odds with the Kukis and Nagas, who make up 40% of the population and inhabit the hill regions.
As the state looks to rebuild, Singh's apology marks a significant, albeit delayed, step toward reconciliation and healing.
Jairam Ramesh, a Congress politician, posted on 'X' Why is it that the Prime Minister is unable to visit Manipur and make the same statement? Despite travelling all around the nation and the world, he has purposefully avoided going to the state since May 4th, 2023. Manipur's residents just cannot comprehend this disregard.

CM N Biren Singh expresses regret, hopes for peace by 2025 after months of ethnic violence

Manipur CM Apologizes for Kuki-Meitei Clashes

CM N Biren Singh expresses regret, hopes for peace by 2025 after months of ethnic violence

December 31, 2024 | 21:13 IST