Manipur Chief Minister N. Biren Singh announced on Friday that the Modi 3.0 government is poised to implement an action plan addressing the ethnic unrest in the state. The solution to the ongoing crisis is expected within the next two to three months. Singh made this statement during the International Yoga Day 2024 celebration held at Khuman Lampak Indoor Hall, Imphal.
"Violence is everywhere, and it has reduced particularly in Manipur. However, some sporadic firing took place in fringe areas, but in other places, schools, government establishments, markets, and businesses are opening across the state, which is an indication of returning to normalcy," said Singh.
He acknowledged that the "actual crisis in Manipur took place only for 6-7 months," although unrest has persisted for 14 months.
Addressing the Jiribam violence, the chief minister admitted that it occurred due to a lack of security arrangements. He noted improvements in the law and order situation in the bordering district, following the redeployment of security personnel previously assigned to Lok Sabha election duty.
Fresh violence erupted in Jiribam district after a 59-year-old farmer from Sorok Atingbi Khunou village, near Assam?s Cachar district, was killed on June 6.
Singh expressed optimism about the improving situation in Manipur, attributing the unrest in the northeast to external factors such as the influx and drug menace. "The present unrest in the entire northeast is due to the influx and drug menace from outside the region. It shows a clear indication of the involvement of some outsiders. After knowing the route, treatment will be very easy," he stated.
The Modi 3.0 government has prioritized resolving the Manipur violence, with Union Home Minister Amit Shah leading high-level security meetings and gathering comprehensive information. "An action plan will definitely come up within 2-3 months for a solution to the Manipur unrest," Singh affirmed.
Meanwhile, the Indigenous Tribal Leaders? Forum (ITLF) issued a statement on Friday, noting, "Our suspension of operation (SoO) groups have already submitted our political demand, asking for a Union Territory with a legislature under Article 239(A) of the Indian Constitution. In support of our political demand, on Monday, June 20, 2024, the ITLF is organizing a mass rally to expedite our political solution."
