Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh has ruled out stepping down, claiming he has neither committed a crime nor caused a scandal and has pledged to fully restore peace in the state with the assistance of the Centre in six months as ethnic violence has started to steadily decline.
In an interview in Imphal on Thursday, Singh indicated for the first time that he has appointed an emissary to hold talks with Kuki-zo and Meitei leaders.
According to an official tally, 226 people have died as a result of violence between the Kuki-zo and Meiti ethnic groups since May 2023.
“All this can be solved with dialogue. Dialogue is the only way,” Singh said. He identified the emissary as Dinganglung Gangmei, a Naga MLA and the chairman of the Hill Area Committee.
When questioned about a timeframe he has set for himself for establishing peace, Singh said that communication and the engagement of the central government, whether the home ministry or other agencies, will be essential to achieving 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 Singh, who is a Meitei and remains heavily mistrusted by the Kukis.
Singh stated he had no intention of resigning at this time. His attempt to step down was dramatically thwarted by his followers, who grabbed and tore his resignation letter in broad daylight during the height of the turmoil last year.
“Why should I resign? Have I stolen anything? Is there a scandal against me? Have I worked against the nation or state? I have saved the state from illegal migration and illegal poppy cultivation. My job is to protect Manipur and people of Manipur. There is no question (of resigning),” he said.
Additionally, he turned down Kukis’ demand for an independent administration.
“Our forefathers have a history of 2000 years. Many sacrifices were made to make this state. This state can’t be broken or have a separate administration. We will not allow this, he said. However, one can look at what can be done through the autonomous councils with a focus on development,” he said.
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