Northeast Desk, 21st January: During the 52nd Statehood Day observance ceremony in Manipur, Chief Minister N Biren Singh appealed to central forces to take the ongoing crisis in the state seriously. Expressed during the event at 1st MR Parade Ground on January 22, Singh voiced concern over the continuous killing of innocent people. He described the situation as very unfortunate and emphasized the primary duty of security forces to prevent harm, protect lives and property, and uphold state and national integrity. Singh urged central forces to focus on these issues to safeguard innocent lives and maintain territorial integrity.
Responding to a query about a viral video related to a murder case in Ningthoukhong allegedly involving Kuki militants and protected by central forces, Biren stated that the state government is examining the video’s authenticity. Condemning the recent brutal killing incidents in Haotak and Ningthoukhong, he characterized targeting innocent civilians as a cowardly act. Singh highlighted the government’s commitment to converting words into action, citing the arrest of the accused in the killing of SDPO Chingtham Anand. He informed about recent meetings with MLAs and ministers to address the crisis and make concrete decisions.
Regarding the Statehood ceremony, Singh expressed pride in being a state, acknowledging that Manipur was earlier categorized as a part-state and union territory. He recalled the statehood granted in 1972 but expressed some dissatisfaction due to elements attempting to divide the state. Despite this, he emphasized the enjoyment of being a state. The event featured a march past by various contingents, attended by MLAs, ministers, and high-ranking officials.
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