Manipur CM Biren Singh promises full peace in 6 months, says no question of him resigning

Manipur CM N Biren Singh aims to restore peace in 6 months, rejects resignation amid ethnic violence.

With ethnic violence gradually subsiding, Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh has promised to fully restore peace in the state in six months with the Centre's help, and also ruled out stepping down, saying he has neither committed a crime nor spawned a scandal.

In an interview with PTI Videos in Imphal on Thursday (August 29, 2024), Mr. Singh revealed for the first time that he has appointed an emissary to hold talks with Kuki-zo and Meitei leaders. The clashes between the Kuki-zo and Meiti ethnic groups since May 2023 has left 226 dead, according to official count.

"All this can be solved with dialogue. Dialogue is the only way,” Mr. Singh said. He identified the emissary as Dinganglung Gangmei, a Naga MLA and the chairman of the Hill Area Committee.

Asked what kind of a deadline he has fixed for himself to restore peace, Mr. Singh indicated that along with dialogue, the Central government's involvement — either through the home ministry or other agencies — will be critical in bringing peace.

“I don't think it will stretch long. Within 5-6 months peace should return. It is our hope and I am also confident,” said Mr. Singh, who is a Meitei and remains largely mistrusted by the Kukis.

During the interview he repeatedly emphasised that he does not want to identify himself as a Meitei when he is sitting on the official chair. "I am a CM for all".

While the Meitei-dominated Imphal appears fully normal, with streets buzzing with traffic and shops doing brisk business, the hills surrounding the capital's flat valley terrain remains out of bounds for all except its Kuki inhabitants.