Manipur Chief Minister N. Biren Singh, in his emotional statement, reiterated his deep regret and extended a formal apology to the people of Manipur for the violence that has engulfed the state since May 2023. “The situation we have faced this year has been tragic. I deeply regret the circumstances that have led to this crisis. I want to offer my heartfelt apologies to the people of Manipur for the suffering they have endured since May 3. Many families have lost their loved ones, and many people have been displaced from their homes. It is painful for me, and I sincerely feel for everyone affected,” Singh said.

The Chief Minister further expressed hope that the state would soon see peace and stability. “After the progress we have made over the past few months towards peace, I believe that with the arrival of 2025, we can restore normalcy to Manipur. I urge all the communities to move past the events that have unfolded. It is time for healing and for us to rebuild. Let us focus on living together in peace and working toward a prosperous future for Manipur,” he added.

The Escalating Ethnic Violence in Manipur
The ethnic violence, initially confined to the Meitei-majority Imphal Valley and surrounding districts, escalated in June 2023, reaching the more peaceful Jiribam district. The violence was triggered by the discovery of a body in the region, sparking a series of retaliatory attacks between the Meitei and Kuki communities. The conflict resulted in widespread destruction, with homes set on fire and several areas caught in intense gunfights, displacing over 1,000 individuals.

An alarming aspect of the violence has been the increasing use of firearms and military-grade equipment, much of which is suspected to have been smuggled from Myanmar. Authorities have reported the recovery of various Myanmar-made weapons, bulletproof vests, and military gear from militants and their hideouts. These smuggled weapons have fueled the intensity of the clashes.

The Toll of the Conflict
According to the latest reports from PTI, more than 250 people have lost their lives in the ethnic conflict, which has divided the Meitei community in the Imphal Valley and the Kuki-Zo groups residing in the surrounding hills. Thousands more have been displaced, their homes destroyed, and their lives disrupted by the ongoing violence. The violence has left the state in turmoil, with hopes for peace contingent on a lasting resolution and cooperation between all communities involved.

With the new year on the horizon, there is a renewed call for unity, peace, and reconciliation across Manipur, as the state looks to heal from the scars of the ongoing ethnic conflict.