The Chief Minister of Manipur, N Biren Singh, has announced that a high-level inquiry will be conducted to hold responsible persons and groups accountable for the recent ethnic violence that has claimed the lives of 60 people in the state. Singh also appealed to the people to refrain from spreading rumors and misinformation. Around 35,655 people, including 1,593 students, have been moved to safer locations so far.
Speaking to reporters, CM Biren stated that 231 people were injured, and around 1,700 houses were burned down in the May 3 incident. He further added that stranded individuals are being provided with the best possible care and support in safe locations and shelter camps. Around 20,000 people have been evacuated, and 10,000 people remain stranded.
The violence erupted during a ‘Tribal Solidarity March’ organized by the All Tribal Students’ Union of Manipur (ATSUM) after an April 19 Manipur High Court decision called for the inclusion of the state’s Meitei population under the Scheduled Tribe (ST) category. The Meiteis and tribals have clashed in the Churachandpur district, with the latter opposing the reservation for Meiteis.
Concerned about the loss of life and property, the Supreme Court asked the Centre and the Manipur government on Monday to step up relief and rehabilitation efforts for those affected by the ethnic violence in the northeastern state. The Centre informed the court that no untoward incidents had been reported in the last two days, and the situation was progressively returning to normality. Over 23,000 people have been evacuated and housed in military and humanitarian camps.
As the state works towards restoring peace and calm, the government has assured the public of its commitment to bringing the perpetrators of violence to justice.
