NEW DELHI: Manipur Chief Minister N. Biren Singh on Tuesday expressed deep regret over the ongoing turmoil in the state and issued a heartfelt apology to its people for the crisis that has persisted since May 2023.

Reflecting on the challenging events of the past year, Singh said, “This year has been incredibly unfortunate. I deeply regret what has unfolded since May 3. Many people have lost their loved ones, and many have been displaced from their homes. I want to sincerely apologise to the people of Manipur.”

Hope for Peace in 2025
The chief minister expressed optimism that the recent months of relative peace signal the potential for complete normalcy to return in 2025. Urging all communities to move past the painful history, he said, “After observing the progress toward peace over the last 3-4 months, I hope that with the New Year 2025, normalcy and peace will be fully restored. I appeal to all communities to let go of past mistakes and start afresh.”

The Crisis Unfolds
The conflict, which erupted in May 2023, stemmed from deep-seated ethnic tensions between the Meitei community in the valley and the Kuki-Zo tribes in the hills. The violence escalated throughout 2024, resulting in over 250 deaths and displacing thousands. Reports of gunfights, arson, and even drone strikes targeting civilian areas painted a grim picture of a state in crisis.

The violence initially began with an attack on villagers in January 2023 and intensified during the April general elections, marred by widespread intimidation and bloodshed. The situation further deteriorated in June with a series of killings in Jiribam, a district bordering Assam. Subsequent bombings and rocket attacks on civilian areas left communities fearful and fractured.

Signs of Improvement
Singh highlighted that firing incidents have significantly declined in recent months, dropping from 408 cases between May and October 2023 to just 112 in the last few months. While acknowledging the pain and loss endured by the people, Singh reiterated his apology: “I am truly sorry for what has happened in Manipur. Many have lost loved ones, and countless others have been forced to leave their homes.”

A Call for Unity
The chief minister’s apology is part of a broader effort to heal the state and foster unity among its diverse communities. Singh emphasized that Manipur’s future depends on reconciliation and collective action. “A peaceful Manipur, a prosperous Manipur—we must all live together,” he stated, expressing hope that 2025 will mark a turning point for the troubled region.

As Manipur looks ahead, Singh’s message of peace and reconciliation offers a glimmer of hope for a state yearning for stability and harmony.

Source: News Agencies