Imphal: Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh on Thursday appealed to the people of the state to support his government’s efforts in restoring peace and emphasised that all issues should be resolved through political dialogue and diplomacy, rather than conflict.
Addressing a gathering, Singh acknowledged that the current situation in the state is troubling and stated that his government has been working with guidance from various sources.
He expressed regret over the ongoing violence and reaffirmed the state’s commitment to returning to normalcy.
“There must be a fault on our part as well. We have been taking advice from others. What is happening in the state is not good, but with the collective efforts of many, normalcy is gradually returning,” he said.
Since May 2023, ethnic violence in Manipur has claimed more than 250 lives and displaced thousands, creating widespread unrest.
The chief minister expressed hope for a return to peace, stating, “Let’s hope that full normalcy returns soon. Let’s pray for peace and work towards restoring harmony without a division between the hills and the valley. We are all Manipuris, we are all Indians.”
Singh reiterated that all core issues should be approached through political and diplomatic channels, urging that solutions must be found through dialogue.
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“Conflict cannot bring about positive change. We must work together to resolve our issues,” he added.
Regarding recent bomb attacks in Kangchup Phayeng, Imphal West district, which took place on Tuesday night, Singh called the incident “unfortunate” and “rare.”
He assured that no major violence had occurred in the past five to six months, highlighting the relative calm in the region before this attack.
The police have launched an investigation and are working to identify those responsible.
Singh assured that appropriate legal action would be taken against those involved.
