Imphal: Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh has strongly reacted to Congress’s criticism following his recent apology regarding the ongoing crisis in the state. In his response, Singh clarified that his apology was directed at the victims of the conflict, not at the terrorists.
Speaking on the sidelines of the oath-taking ceremony for newly appointed Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla, Singh addressed media queries, stating that his apology was meant for those who had lost loved ones and for the displaced people, but not for the terrorists involved in the violence. He dismissed Congress’s criticism, saying, “Congress party can say anything. They can even say that the sun is the moon.”
Singh also alleged that Congress was responsible for creating the ongoing crisis in the state, accusing them of not wanting peace and normalcy to return to Manipur.
In addition, the Chief Minister praised the appointment of Ajay Kumar Bhalla as the new Governor, emphasizing that sending an experienced and competent individual during such challenging times reflected the central government’s serious concern for resolving the situation in Manipur. He expressed confidence in Bhalla’s ability to bring peace to the state, stating, “I know Bhalla ji very well. He is well-experienced and held many important posts in the administration of the government of India.”
Singh acknowledged the complexity of the current conflict, noting that it would take time to resolve. However, he assured that the central government had already implemented 60 to 70 percent of the demands from the people of Manipur and urged citizens to trust the government’s efforts. “Only then can Manipur be saved and protect the people of the state,” he added.
Meanwhile, Manipur Congress President Keisham Meghachandra criticized Singh’s apology, calling it an admission of the government’s failure. He questioned Singh’s next steps in addressing the ongoing violence, pointing out that violence and shootings continued despite the apology. Meghachandra urged the people of Manipur to consider the responsibility and accountability of Singh’s statements and actions moving forward.
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