“This entire year has been very unfortunate. I feel regret...” Manipur CM Biren Singh apologises

Dec 31, 2024

Imphal (Manipur), December 31: Manipur CM N Biren Singh held a press conference on December 31, where he apologized for the unrest in Manipur. CM Biren Singh said, “This entire year has been very unfortunate. I feel regret, and I want to say sorry to the people of the state for what is happening till today, since last May 3. Many people lost their loved ones. Many people left their homes. I really feel regret. I would like to apologise.” CM Biren Singh also appealed to all communities, stating, “I would like to apologise. Now, I hope after seeing the last 3-4 months' progress towards peace, I hope that with the New Year 2025, normalcy and peace will be restored in the state. I want to appeal to all the communities of the state that whatever happened has happened. We now have to forget past mistakes and have to start a new life. A peaceful Manipur, a prosperous Manipur, we should all live together.” The violence in Manipur has claimed over 180 lives since May last year, when clashes erupted over the Meitei community's demand for Scheduled Tribe (ST) status and the tribal Kukis' opposition to this. The Meiteis account for about 53 per cent of Manipur's population and live mostly in Imphal Valley. The tribals, including Nagas and Kukis, constitute 40 per cent of the population and reside mainly in the hills.