Manipur's Ethnic Strife: Chief Minister Apologizes Amid Continued Unrest

The Chief Minister of Manipur, India, has apologized for the ethnic violence that has plagued the state since May 2023, resulting in over 250 deaths and major displacements. Despite peace efforts, tensions between the Meitei and Kuki communities persist, with ongoing allegations and security interventions.

In a remorseful address, Manipur's Chief Minister has reached out to the citizens, expressing sorrow over ethnic violence that has gripped the northeastern Indian state. With over 250 fatalities and 60,000 people displaced, the situation has sparked nationwide criticism of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's central administration.

The unrest commenced last May, following a contentious court directive to consider extending economic benefits for the Kuki community to the Meitei population, leading to heightened tensions. Despite sporadic attacks, the Chief Minister firmly believes peace initiatives are yielding positive results, projecting a normalization by the coming year.

Manipur's strife highlights the deep-rooted competition between the state's two major ethnic groups for land, jobs, and dominance, exacerbated by the rampant circulation of illicit arms. Chief Minister Singh, himself a Meitei, faces accusations from the Kuki community over his alleged role in the violence, charges he vehemently denies amidst federal claims of improved security conditions.

(With inputs from agencies.)