Kochi: Manipur Chief Minister Biren Singh on Tuesday expressed regret over the violence in the state and tendered apology for ethnic unrest that erupted on May 3, media reports said.
Addressing a press conference, he said “This entire year has been very unfortunate… Many people lost their loved ones. Many people left their homes. I feel regret. I apologise,” reports quoting him said. He expressed hope to see improvement in the situation.
“…roughly 200 people have died and around 12,247 FIRs registered and 625 accused arrested and around 5,600 arms and weapons including explosives and around 35,000 ammunition recovered…” he said.
He said that families displaced in the conflict have been given adequate funds by the Centre to construct new houses.
“The Central government has provided enough security personnel , he said.
The rivalry between the Meitei community in the valley and the Kuki tribes in the hills in 2024, led to widespread violence. Four villagers were gunned down by cadres of the banned Peoples’ Liberation Army in connection with disputes over illegal drug trade in Thoubal district on January 1 leading to the State government imposing prohibitory orders in all five valley districts.
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