IMPHAL: Manipur Chief Minister N. Biren Singh expressed regret to the people of the state over the ethnic violence that shook Manipur. He stated that the entire year had been unfortunate, and he deeply regretted it. He also apologised to the people for the damage and turmoil caused by the riots.
Addressing the media, the Chief Minister, however, said the year ends on an optimistic note and that he hoped that peace and normalcy would return to the state in the New Year 2025.
"I would like to apologise to all the victims and their kin. It is very unfortunate that many people have lost their loved ones, many people had to leave their homes and villages. However, considering the positive developments during the past three-four months, I hope peace and normalcy will return to the state in the New Year 2025,” Singh said.
Manipur has 34 to 35 different communities, he said adding “We would live together after forgiving what already happened."
“I appeal to all the communities to live together and to make Manipur prosperous with a united effort,” the Chief Minister said.
“On the eve of a New Year, I reflect on the progress we have made together in 2024 and the challenges we have to overcome. As we step into 2025, I reaffirm our commitment to building a stronger, more inclusive state.”
The unrest that led to the ethnic violence in the state was triggered by the Manipur High Court's order directing the state government to include the Meitei community in the Scheduled Tribe list. Over 220 people have lost their lives in the conflict so far. Thousands have been injured, and tens of thousands have been left homeless.