IMPHAL, Dec 31: Manipur Chief Minister N. Biren Singh on Tuesday extended a heartfelt apology to the people of Manipur for the turmoil and violence that has gripped the state since May 2023. Reflecting on the events of the past year, Singh expressed deep regret over the ongoing ethnic conflict and emphasized the need for reconciliation and unity in 2025.
“This entire year has been very unfortunate. I feel regret and I want to say sorry to the people of the state for what is happening till today, since last May 3. Many people lost their loved ones. Many people left their homes. I really feel regret,” Singh said.
The chief minister expressed optimism that the recent progress toward peace, observed over the last three to four months, would lead to normalcy in the coming year. “Now, I hope after seeing the last 3-4 months’ progress towards peace, I hope that with the New Year 2025, normalcy and peace will be restored in the state. 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,” Singh added.
The violence, which began in May 2023, was rooted in ethnic tensions between the Meitei community in the valley and the Kuki-Zo tribes in the hills. The unrest has left over 250 dead and thousands homeless, with incidents of gunfights, arson, and drone strikes targeting civilian areas.
Singh acknowledged the human cost of the violence, stating, “I want to apologise for what happened in Manipur. Many lost dear ones, many left their homes.”
Singh noted a significant decrease in firing incidents, with numbers dropping from 408 between May and October 2023 to 112 in recent months. The reduction in violence has provided a glimmer of hope for the state’s residents, as the government and security forces continue efforts to restore law and order.
Singh urged all communities to unite and move beyond the divisions of the past. “A peaceful Manipur, a prosperous Manipur, we should all live together,” he said, emphasizing the importance of healing and rebuilding trust among the state’s diverse communities.
