Manipur’s Chief Minister, N Biren Singh, addressed the ongoing crisis in his state and advised his Mizoram counterpart, Lalduhoma, to offer support without intervening in what he termed as Manipur’s “internal matter.”
During his speech at the 84th Nupi Lal day at GP Women’s College hall in Imphal, Biren Singh emphasized the principle of non-interference in internal matters between states. He highlighted instances where similar issues were addressed without external involvement, citing the Meitei issue in Assam, where the request was directed to Assam’s Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma.
Singh responded to a statement by Mizoram’s Chief Minister, Lalduhoma, cautioning the Manipur police against alleged harassment of Mizoram residents in Moreh. He clarified that the people in Moreh, regardless of their ethnic background, are citizens of Manipur. He urged Lalduhoma to extend support in resolving the internal situation, emphasizing the need to avoid interference beyond legitimate boundaries.
Expressing the gravity of the situation in Manipur, Singh underscored his efforts to reach out to other regional chief ministers to address the unrest. The state has been grappling with ethnic clashes between Meiteis and Kukis since May 3, resulting in substantial casualties and displacements.
The clashes, with a toll of at least 182 fatalities (not including recent casualties) and displacement of around 50,000 individuals, have posed a significant challenge to the region’s stability. Singh highlighted the urgency of the situation, referencing the largest single-day toll recorded on June 14, which claimed nine lives in various areas of Kangpokpi district.
In his plea, Singh appealed for cooperation and support from Lalduhoma and stressed the need to restore peace in Manipur. He emphasized the sensitive nature of the internal situation and urged against external interference, seeking collaborative efforts to resolve the crisis and foster stability within the state.
The situation in Manipur remains a concern, prompting concerted efforts from the state government to address the underlying tensions and work towards a peaceful resolution amidst the ongoing ethnic clashes.
Sources By Agencies
