Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh, in a recent statement, extended his heartfelt apology to the people of the state for the devastating impact of the ongoing ethnic clashes, which have left deep scars across the community. The violence, which erupted in May 2023, has been one of the most severe crises in the state’s history, claiming more than 180 lives and displacing countless families.
Despite the immense challenges, Singh expressed optimism for the future, focusing on the gradual restoration of peace. “The last year has been incredibly difficult for all of us. The events since May 3 have caused immense pain, and I deeply regret the suffering endured by our people,” said the Chief Minister. He acknowledged the significant emotional and material toll the violence has taken, with many families losing loved ones, homes, and livelihoods. “I offer my sincere apology for the anguish and hardship that this crisis has caused,” Singh added, while also expressing hope that the state’s recovery would continue in the coming months.
The Chief Minister highlighted the progress made in recent months toward rebuilding trust and fostering cooperation between communities. “While the road to recovery remains long, I believe we are on the right path. If we continue with this spirit of reconciliation, I am confident that normalcy will be restored by 2025,” Singh said.
In his appeal to the people of Manipur, Singh urged them to let go of past grievances and focus on forging a united future. “Forgiveness and reconciliation are essential for our collective peace. We must look beyond the divisions that have plagued us and work together to rebuild a prosperous Manipur, where all 35 tribes can coexist in harmony,” he stressed. His message of unity also echoed in his call for inclusivity and mutual respect among all communities, emphasizing that the state’s strength lies in its diversity.
The violence, largely fueled by a dispute over the Meitei community’s demand for Scheduled Tribe (ST) status, has created a rift between the Meitei population and the tribal communities, including the Kukis and Nagas. The Meiteis, who represent about 53% of Manipur’s population, primarily reside in the Imphal Valley, while the tribal groups, constituting 40% of the population, live in the hilly regions. The tensions between these communities have deepened the divide, with both sides accusing each other of violence and injustice.
As part of the reconciliation efforts, the state government is initiating dialogue between community leaders, while also taking steps to address the economic and social consequences of the conflict. The government is working on rebuilding infrastructure, providing relief to displaced families, and ensuring that those affected by the violence receive adequate compensation. Additionally, there are efforts underway to improve security in vulnerable areas, with a focus on preventing future clashes and fostering an environment of trust.
Singh also emphasized the importance of healing for the younger generation, who have witnessed the devastating impact of the violence. “We must ensure that our children grow up in an environment of peace, where they are not burdened by the mistakes of the past but instead empowered to build a better future,” he said.
The Chief Minister’s statement marks a crucial step in the state’s journey towards peace, underscoring the need for cooperation and mutual understanding to bridge the gaps between communities and create a stable and prosperous Manipur.
