"I Am Sorry": Manipur CM Singh As Ethnic Tensions Persist In Northeast State, Pledges Normalcy By 2025 Amid Renewed Hope For Peace

In a rare public apology, Manipur Chief Minister Biren Singh on Tuesday (31 December) expressed regret for the ethnic violence that has gripped the state since May 2023. Speaking at a press conference in Imphal, Singh addressed the deep scars left by the conflict and pledged efforts toward restoring normalcy.

“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 3 May,” Singh stated. Acknowledging the pain of the affected, he added, “Many people lost their loved ones. Many people left their homes. I feel regret. I apologise.”

The Chief Minister expressed cautious optimism about the state’s progress toward stability. “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,” Singh remarked.

He also outlined the measures taken to support displaced families, crediting the Central government for providing resources to aid recovery. “The Central government has provided enough security personnel and enough funds to help the displaced families and enough funds to construct new houses for the displaced persons,” Singh said.

Manipur has been engulfed in a protracted ethnic conflict, predominantly between the Kuki and Meitei communities, for over a year. The violence has been marked by human casualties, widespread destruction, mob attacks, and even drone strikes on civilian areas, painting a grim picture of unrest.

With tensions still high, Singh’s apology and optimism offer a glimmer of hope, but the road to peace remains fraught with challenges. As the state inches toward recovery, efforts to heal divisions and rebuild communities will be critical in ensuring sustainable peace.