Imphal, Jan 1: Manipur Chief Minister N. Biren Singh has apologised and regretted for the ethnic violence that erupted in the state in May last year, resulting in widespread loss and displacement.
Addressing the media on Tuesday. Singh expressed hope for a more peaceful and harmonious New Year, stating, “I apologise to all the victims and their kin.”
He acknowledged the tragic toll of the violence: “Unfortunately, many have lost loved ones and others were forced to leave their homes and villages. However, given the positive developments in the past three to four months, I am optimistic that peace and normalcy will return to Manipur in 2025.”
Manipur, home to 34 to 35 diverse communities, must rebuild unity through forgiveness, the Chief Minister emphasized. “We must come together and make Manipur prosperous with a united effort,” he said.
Reflecting on the year 2024, Singh added, “On the eve of a New Year, I look back at the progress we’ve made and the challenges we’ve faced. As we step into 2025, I reaffirm our commitment to building a stronger, more inclusive state.”
Sharing details of the violence’s impact over the past 20 months, the Chief Minister revealed:
Lives lost: Approximately 200 people
FIRs registered: 12,247
Arrests made: 625 individuals
Arms and ammunition seized: 5,600 weapons, 35,000 rounds of ammunition, and a substantial cache of explosives.
Singh commended the efforts of security forces in addressing the violence, noting significant recoveries and arrests. He also acknowledged the central government’s support, including the deployment of security personnel and allocation of funds to assist displaced individuals and rebuild homes.
As the state enters 2025, Singh urged all communities to move forward together in unity and peace.
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