Manipur Chief Minister N. Biren Singh has broken his silence following the brutal killing of six individuals—three women and three children—by suspected Kuki militants in the strife-torn state. Speaking in a video message posted on his X (formerly Twitter) handle, Singh condemned the gruesome act, describing it as a “crime against humanity,” and vowed to bring the perpetrators to justice.

A Heartbreaking Incident

The victims had gone missing on November 11 from a relief camp for internally displaced persons in Jiribam district following a gunfight between militants and security forces. Their bodies were later recovered from a river, sparking widespread outrage and calls for accountability. Singh stated, “Today, I stand here with profound sadness and anger to condemn the horrific killings of three innocent children and three innocent women by Kuki terrorists after being taken hostage at Jiribam. Such barbaric acts have no place in any civilized society.”

Singh assured that search operations to apprehend those responsible were underway, promising swift action. “The hunt for these terrorists is currently underway, and they will be brought to justice very soon. We will not rest until they are held accountable for their inhuman actions,” he said.

CRPF’s Decisive Role

The chief minister praised the timely intervention of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), which he credited with averting further bloodshed during the militants’ assault on the Borobekra relief camp and a nearby police station. According to Singh, “Around 40 to 50 armed terrorists launched an assault on internally displaced persons residing in a relief camp at Borobekra and targeted a police station in Jiribam. They aimed to spread fear and destruction.”

He highlighted that the CRPF’s swift response neutralized 10 terrorists on the spot, preventing what could have been a larger-scale tragedy. “Their timely and decisive action saved hundreds of innocent lives living in the relief camps,” Singh added.

Manipur’s Escalating Violence

The killings mark yet another chapter in the ongoing ethnic violence that has plagued Manipur for nearly 18 months. The unrest has effectively divided the state into two ethnic enclaves: the Meitei-majority Imphal Valley and the Kuki-dominated hill areas, despite the presence of buffer zones monitored by security forces.

The recent reimposition of the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA) in six districts—more than a year after it was withdrawn—has fueled the fire, sparking renewed protests in the Imphal Valley. Critics argue that the reintroduction of AFSPA reflects the state’s deteriorating law and order situation.

A Call for Justice and Peace

The chief minister expressed his commitment to restoring peace and protecting the lives of Manipur’s citizens. He labeled the act of targeting women and children as particularly heinous and vowed to take decisive action against the perpetrators. “We will not allow such acts of terror to undermine the safety and dignity of our people,” he said.

Singh also called for unity among the people of Manipur, urging them to stand together against violence and terror. While search operations continue, the state government is under pressure to address the deeper ethnic tensions fueling the conflict.

Manipur’s Fragile Future  

The killings underscore the challenges faced by Manipur in its struggle for peace and stability. Despite efforts by security forces, the ethnic divide remains stark, with violence threatening to escalate further. As search operations locate the perpetrators, the government’s ability to bring justice to the victims and restore community trust will be crucial in shaping the state’s future.