Manipur violence: CM Biren Singh suspects involvement of Myanmar-based militant group in Moreh ambush

Chief Minister Nongthombam Biren Singh made a compassionate visit to the Regional Institute of Medical Sciences (RIMS) Hospital to check on the condition of the security personnel who had been injured in the line of duty while attempting to restore peace and order in the region.

Speaking to the media, CM Biren Singh said, "...Even we have seen some of the videos leaked from the terrorist groups...We are working with the Central and State forces. We are countering them and a search operation is going on. Reinforcement has been sent. We have a doubt about the involvement of foreign machinery from the Myanmar side. It is our commitment to the people of the state that we will not succumb to this kind of threat and pressure..."

Further CM Biren Singh asserted that foreign machinery from the Myanmar side, likely to be the Kuki National Army (KNA-B) involved in the recent attack in Moreh.

The conflict, primarily between the Meitei people of the Imphal Valley and the Kuki-Zo tribal community from the surrounding hills, has led to significant casualties and injuries. 

As of September 15, 2023, government figures reported 175 fatalities due to the violence. The situation escalated to such an extent that the government imposed curfews across several districts and issued shoot-at-sight orders on May 4. A substantial military presence was deployed, with over 9,000 individuals being relocated to safer locations by May 4, and the number rising to 23,000 by May 6.

During the violent clashes, security forces have faced numerous engagements with militants, resulting in casualties on both sides. On January 1, 2024, Kuki militants attacked commando units and village volunteers, leaving at least five individuals wounded. These injured commando personnel, including a Rifleman, were admitted to RIMS Hospital across different wards for treatment.

Chief Minister Biren Singh's visit to RIMS underscores the gravity of the situation and the state's commitment to the welfare of its security forces. It also highlights the ongoing efforts to stabilize the region, which has seen a significant military buildup, including the deployment of the Assam Rifles and the Indian Army, as well as companies of the Rapid Action Force.

The violence has not only caused loss of life and injuries but has also taken a toll on Manipur's economy, with a contraction in GST collections during the April-October period by 19 per cent. This economic impact, coupled with the human cost, presents a challenging scenario for the Chief Minister and his administration as they navigate through one of the toughest tests of their tenure.