IMPHAL, March 31: Former Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh on Monday has taken aim at Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad Sangma, questioning his understanding of Manipur’s security situation.

In a strongly worded statement on social media, Singh raised concerns about outside interference in Manipur’s affairs and referenced a past proposal by the late PA Sangma to divide the Northeast along ethnic lines, calling it “a dangerous idea that threatened the unity of our Nation.”

Singh specifically questioned whether Conrad Sangma was aware of Manipur’s existing security measures, including ongoing border fencing projects and the stricter regulation of the Free Movement Regime (FMR).

“Does Mr. Conrad Sangma know that Manipur had already initiated border fencing? That the Free Movement Regime is now strictly regulated?” Singh asked, further pointing out the “alarming rise in unrecognized villages within Manipur’s borders.”

The former Manipur CM argued that the state’s challenges stem from “a complex mix of challenges: the drug menace, illegal immigration, destruction of forests, and the systematic pursuit of power by select groups” rather than purely political issues. He insisted that recent violence in Manipur was “not spontaneous; it was instigated by those who feel threatened and insecure by this kind of progress.”

Singh also emphasized that the implementation of the Inner Line Permit (ILP) system was a “hard-won achievement” essential for protecting Manipur’s 32 indigenous tribes. He expressed disappointment that some regional leaders had chosen to “intervene in Manipur’s affairs” instead of respecting the state’s internal challenges.

Hours after Singh’s remarks, Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad Sangma responded, expressing disappointment over the reference to his late father, PA Sangma.

“It’s unfortunate that @NBirenSingh ji has dragged the name of (L) Shri P.A. Sangma ji,” Sangma wrote on social media. “Sangma ji has always fought for the people of the North East, was a strong advocate for different issues and rights of the people of the North East.”

While not directly addressing Singh’s security concerns, Conrad Sangma instead emphasized the need for unity and collective efforts to restore peace in Manipur.

“At this time, everyone’s efforts should be towards the restoration of peace and harmony in Manipur and not indulge in political posturing. We all have to work together,” he stated.

The Meghalaya CM concluded his response by calling on all leaders to focus on the welfare of Manipur’s people, adding, “This is what (L) P.A. Sangma ji would have wanted.”