IMPHAL, Nov 20: Chief Minister N Biren Singh expressed profound grief and anger over the brutal killings of six individuals, including three women and three children, by suspected Kuki militants last week.
In a heartfelt video message shared on social media platform X on Tuesday, Singh condemned the heinous acts and assured the public that his government would intensify efforts to bring the perpetrators to justice.
The incident, which has shocked the community, unfolded in Jiribam district. The bodies of the victims were recovered from a river after the six had been reported missing since November 11. Their disappearance coincided with a violent clash between militants and security forces that resulted in the deaths of ten insurgents.
“The killing of women and children is a crime against humanity,” Singh stated, emphasizing the inhumanity of such acts. He expressed unwavering determination, stating, “Let me assure you that the hunt for these terrorists is currently underway and they will be brought to justice very soon. We will not rest until they are held accountable for their inhuman actions.”
The Chief Minister elaborated on the circumstances surrounding the attack, disclosing that a group of 40 to 50 armed militants had attacked a relief camp in Borobekra, targeting the internally displaced persons. Their assault also included an attack on a nearby police station, aiming to instill fear among the populace. Singh lauded the quick response by the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) stationed in the area, which he credited with saving countless lives. The swift action by the CRPF led to the neutralization of the ten insurgents involved in the assault.
“I extend my heartfelt gratitude to CRPF and state forces for their remarkable courage and commitment to duty,” Singh remarked, highlighting the professionalism demonstrated by the security personnel in protecting innocent lives and maintaining peace in the region. He praised their “unwavering determination” to safeguard the community amidst the ongoing violence.
The Chief Minister also acknowledged the support from central leaders in their efforts to restore peace in Manipur. He noted that the central government has dispatched an additional 20 companies of Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF), with plans for 50 more, to bolster security in the state.
Singh reaffirmed his commitment to ensure the safety of all citizens, regardless of their community affiliation. “We will continue to take necessary steps to ensure the safety of our people irrespective of which community they belong to,” he stated, urging collective condemnation of the violence. He concluded with a hopeful message, asserting that together, the people of Manipur would overcome these troubling times to foster a future of peace and harmony.
