Ahead of Delhi visit, CM hopeful of positive outcome

Waari Singbul Network
IMPHAL, Jul 25: Chief Minister N Biren Singh has expressed optimism about finding a solution to the ongoing unrest in the State as he departed for Delhi.
He is scheduled to attend a NITI Aayog meeting and a Chief Ministers’ Conclave, both of which would be presided over by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Biren is hopeful for a one-on-one meeting with the Prime Minister to discuss the State's issues and find a tangible solution to restore normalcy.
Since May 3, 2023, Manipur has been hit by unprecedented violence between the Chin-Kuki-Zos and the Meiteis. The conflict has resulted in at least 220 deaths and has displaced over 60,000 people who are now living in relief camps across the State.
N Biren is confident that the meetings in Delhi will provide an opportunity to brief the Prime Minister on various issues and discuss the current situation in the State.
He expressed hope that "some positive developments will surely come out."
Responding to the Opposition's criticism of the Union Budget tabled by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, which they claim offers nothing for unrest-ravaged and disaster-hit Manipur, Biren accused the Opposition of "petty politics."
The Chief Minister assured that the Centre has provided sufficient grants to address the resource crunch caused by the ongoing unrest and natural disasters in the State.
He emphasized the need to avoid petty politics during this critical time.
Commenting on recent violence in the Jiribam district, where a house was reportedly burnt on Wednesday, Biren clarified that the incident was not related to the ongoing ethnic violence.
He said that it was a stray incident committed by some elements exploiting the ethnic tension for their own agenda. He assured that the police are investigating and expected to make arrests soon.
Regarding the upcoming State Assembly’s Budget Session which starts on July 31, Biren revealed efforts to ensure the participation of the 10 Kuki-Zo MLAs, including the two Ministers who have abstained from proceedings since the violence began.
These MLAs have also demanded division of Manipur along ethnic lines in the form of a separate administration for the Kuki-Zo communities.
"We are inviting them. I’ve also personally invited them. The House (Assembly) is also inviting them. They should come and attend the House in session. We will facilitate their presence in the House if they seek my assistance and cooperation," the Chief Minister added.