Manipur CM Biren Singh Apologizes for Violence, Emphasizes Peace and Reforms
Manipur Chief Minister N. Biren Singh publicly apologized for the ethnic violence that has gripped the state since May 2023, leading to over 200 deaths and thousands displaced. Addressing a press conference in Imphal, he appealed for reconciliation, urging people to “forgive and forget” the past. Singh expressed regret over the turmoil but highlighted progress toward peace, predicting normalcy by 2025.
To curb violence, additional security forces have been deployed in vulnerable zones and along national highways. The government has successfully resettled 2,058 displaced families across Imphal West, Imphal East, Kangpokpi, and Churachandpur. Efforts to recover stolen arms have yielded 3,000 recovered weapons, while 625 miscreants have been arrested and 12,247 FIRs filed.
Announcing key initiatives, Singh revealed a hike in Dearness Allowance for state employees from 32% to 39% and the introduction of subsidies to cap airfare costs at ₹5,000. Affordable Alliance Air services will connect Imphal to Guwahati, Kolkata, and Dimapur twice weekly.
The government is also tackling illegal migration through Aadhaar-linked birth registration starting January 2025. This initiative aims to curb population discrepancies and ensure accurate records.
In education, the government plans to award exemplary teachers, granting double annual increments to encourage excellence. Singh reaffirmed his commitment to dialogue and cooperation to restore harmony in Manipur.
“Peace is being restored, and the only solution lies in discussions, which are actively underway,” Singh emphasized.
