IMPHAL, Nov 19: Manipur Chief Minister N. Biren Singh convened a crucial meeting with ruling National Democratic Alliance (NDA) MLAs on Monday evening to discuss the escalating tensions in the state following the brutal killing of six Meitei women and children in Jiribam on November 11. The meeting strongly condemned the killings and laid out a series of measures aimed at restoring peace and stability in the state.

In the meeting, the legislators unanimously demanded immediate mass operations against the Kuki militants believed to be responsible for the November 11 attack, calling for the group to be declared an “unlawful organisation” within seven days. They passed a resolution warning that if their demands were not met within the stipulated time frame, the NDA legislators would determine the next steps in consultation with the public.

The meeting resolved to request the Central Government to review the imposition of AFSPA as per the November 14, 2024 order with immediate effect.

Additional resolutions included the transfer of key cases to the National Investigation Agency (NIA), including:
• The killing of six Meitei women and children in Jiribam.
• The death of a Hmar woman who was burnt on November 7 in Jiribam.
• The killing of a Meitei woman farmer in Saiton, Bishnupur district, on November 9.

The meeting also condemned the vandalism of legislators’ homes during recent protests, terming it a barbaric act. It was resolved that legal action would be taken against those responsible, based on findings from a High-Powered Committee.

Out of the 45 legislators, only 27 attended in person, while one participated virtually. Government sources indicated that six MLAs were absent due to medical reasons, but 11 others, including a cabinet minister, skipped the meeting without explanation. Notably, Minister Y. Khemchand Singh was among the absentees, further highlighting internal fissures within the NDA.