Imphal: Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh said there has been a shift in the nature of violence in Manipur. He highlighted that clashes have evolved from community-based conflicts to confrontations between state security forces and militants.
Speaking to NDTV, he said that "the violence during the new year was between the state security forces and militants, not between two communities."
His statement comes amidst recent gunfights between security forces and insurgents in Moreh, a significant trading town along the India-Myanmar border.
He further expressed concerns regarding the evolving conflict dynamics, acknowledging a change where state forces are now engaged in battles against insurgent groups.
Singh addressed the demand made by the Kuki tribes, urging the removal of state police from Moreh and the retention of central forces only. Allegations have surfaced, with the police accused of targeting Kuki civilians, a claim refuted by the Manipur Police, attributing the attacks to hill-based insurgents.
Advocating for the cessation of the Free Movement Regime (FMR) along the India-Myanmar border, Singh stressed the necessity for stringent border fencing and emphasised the importance of proper documentation for cross-border travel.
Singh hinted at the potential involvement of foreign mercenaries in the violence and highlighted ongoing efforts by both the government and local communities to restore peace. He remained optimistic about the restoration of normalcy in Manipur, promising immediate financial assistance of Rs 1 lakh to each displaced individual to meet their urgent needs.
Blaming past governments for the current crisis, Singh suggested that if due attention had been given during the merger period in 1947-49, the current issues might have been averted. He underscored the importance of border security measures, suggesting that effective fencing and a regulated pass system could have mitigated the influx issue.
Highlighting the neglect by previous administrations, Singh credited Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah for initiatives addressing developmental and security concerns in Manipur. He attributed the ongoing challenges to past government inactions.
The Manipur violence, which commenced on May 3, 2023, has resulted in over 180 casualties and internal displacement of thousands.