Former Manipur CM Biren Singh says government taking all measures to contain violence in hill areas

Former Manipur Chief Minister and senior BJP leader N. Biren Singh on Monday, June 8, expressed concern over the recent incidents of violence and killings reported from the state's hill districts, stating that both the state and central governments are making concerted efforts to restore peace and bring the situation under control.

Speaking to reporters after attending a floral tribute ceremony for veteran journalist Okram Homendro Singh at the Manipur Press Club in Imphal, Biren Singh described the recent spate of violence in the hill areas as unfortunate and reiterated the need for dialogue to resolve conflicts.

The condolence service was organised jointly by the All Manipur Working Journalists’ Union (AMWJU) and the Editors’ Guild Manipur (EGM) to pay homage to the late journalist.

Addressing the prevailing security situation, Biren Singh said the government has been closely monitoring developments in the hill districts and is taking necessary measures to address the challenges.

He noted that central security forces which had been temporarily deployed outside the state for election-related duties in other parts of the country have returned to Manipur, as assured by the Government of India. According to him, the reinforcement of security personnel is expected to strengthen efforts to stabilise the situation and improve law and order in the affected areas.

“The unfolding incidents of violence in the hill districts over the past few months are unfortunate. Any conflict can be resolved through dialogue, and the government is doing its best to bring the situation under control,” he said.

Commenting on the demand for updating the National Register of Citizens (NRC) in Manipur, Biren Singh said the state has been significantly affected by issues related to illegal immigration and acknowledged the concerns raised by various civil society organisations.

He stated that the demands put forward by civil society groups deserve consideration while also emphasising the need to take into account administrative and practical aspects associated with any such exercise.

According to Biren Singh, the Manipur Government and civil society organisations should work together to develop a common platform for addressing concerns related to illegal immigration and citizenship issues.

During the programme, the former chief minister also paid tribute to senior journalist Okram Homendro Singh, recalling his long association with the veteran media professional during his own years in journalism before entering politics.

Describing Homendro Singh as a courageous, soft-spoken and dedicated journalist, Biren Singh said he had devoted his life to the profession since the early 1990s and earned widespread respect within the media fraternity.

He termed the journalist’s untimely demise an irreparable loss and extended his condolences to the bereaved family.

“I extend my heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family,” Biren Singh said.

The floral tribute ceremony was attended by Media Adviser to the Chief Minister Sunil Oinam, members of the journalist community, representatives of media organisations and family members of the late journalist.