CM Biren Singh Apologises For Manipur Violence: 'Sorry For What's Happening Since May 3'

Manipur CM Biren Singh issued an apology to the people of the state for the loss of lives and displacement caused ever since violence broke out on May 3.

Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh on December 31 issued an apology to the people of the state amid the ongoing violence, which continues to claim lives since it began last year in May. He also expressed "regret" over the law and order condition of Manipur and expressed hope that normalcy would be restored in the upcoming year. 

During a press conference in Imphal, Biren Singh said: "This entire year has been very unfortunate. I want to say sorry to the people of the state for what's happening till today since last May 3. Many people lost their loved ones. Many people left their homes. I feel regret. I apologise."

"But now, I hope after seeing the last three to four months progress towards the peace, I believe by 2025, the normalcy will be restored in the state,” he added.

Biren Singh, who has been facing heat over his handling of the Manipur violence, also appealed to the people of the state to "forgive and forget".

Urging all the communities in the state to maintain peace, the Manipur CM said, "I want to appeal to all the communities of the state that whatever happened has happened. We now have to forget past mistakes and have to start a new life. A peaceful Manipur, a prosperous Manipur, we should all live together ."

According to report by news agency PTI, more than 250 people have been killed and thousands displaced as ethnic violence broke out between the Imphal Valley-based Meiteis and adjoining hills-based Kuki-Zo groups since May last year. Meitis demanded Scheduled Tribe status for their community which the Kukis opposed.  

As the divide between the Meitis and Kukis deepened in 2024, it triggered widespread violence, mob attacks, drone strikes, and human casualties. The year 2024 began on a violent note in the state as four villagers were gunned down by the banned People's Liberation Army in the Thoubal district on January 1.

The Lok Sabha polls were also held in the backdrop of the violence in April. The first phase witnessed violence with incidents of intimidation, firing, and EVM destruction being reported at various polling booths. 

The violence which was earlier confined to Imphal valley and its surrounding areas of Kangpokpi, Churachandpur, and Tengnoupal, renewed in June after a man was found dead in Jiribam, which led to widespread arson, torching of houses, and gunfights.