Manipur CM Ends 2024 With Apology For Unrest, Lives Lost

BENGALURU (Reuters/ANI) – Manipur Chief Minister Biren Singh issued an apology on December 31 for the ethnic violence that has gripped the northeastern state since May 2023, claiming over 250 lives and displacing 60,000 people. The conflict, primarily between the Meitei majority and the tribal Kuki community, has drawn sharp criticism of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government for its perceived silence and inaction.

“This entire year has been very unfortunate,” Singh said at a press conference in Imphal, the state capital. “I want to say sorry to the people of the state for what’s happened. Many people lost their loved ones. Many people left their homes. I feel regret, I apologize.”

The violence erupted following a court directive to consider extending special economic benefits and quotas in government jobs and education, currently enjoyed by the Kuki community, to the Meitei population. The unrest has forced many to flee ethnically mixed areas despite peace efforts.

Sporadic violence, including attacks and killings, continues, fueled by widespread circulation of weapons, including automatic rifles stolen from police stockpiles or smuggled in from neighboring Myanmar. The Kukis have accused Singh, a Meitei and member of Modi’s Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), of complicity in attacks on their community and demanded his resignation.

Despite ongoing tensions, Singh struck an optimistic tone, expressing hope for a peaceful 2025. “The year ends on an optimistic note. I want to appeal to all communities in the state: Whatever happened has happened. You must forgive and forget the past mistakes, and we have to start anew towards a peaceful and prosperous Manipur,” he said, emphasizing the need for harmony among the state’s 35 tribes.

Singh also highlighted recent progress in peace efforts, stating his belief that normalcy would return in the new year.

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