My focus is resettlement of IDPs: Former Manipur CM N Biren Singh
Bishnupur, April 7
Former Manipur CM and BJP leader N Biren Singh on Tuesday emphasized working towards the resettlement of Internally Displaced People due to violence within the state.
Speaking to ANI, Biren Singh noted that with the cooperation of CM Yumnam Khemchand and other MLAs, the formation of a special committee, which will be specifically dedicated to the resettlement of people.
"As a responsible elected member, my focus will be on the resettlement of the IDPs (Internally Displaced Persons). With the cooperation of the MLAs and the present CM, we have to form a special committee, specifically for the resettlement of the IDPs. After that, we can proceed to the central government, mainly to the Home Ministry... All the civil societies and many political parties, along with the United Naga Council, are jointly demanding implementation of the NRC (National Register of Citizens) before the census," said N Biren Singh.
The ethnic violence between the Meitei and Kuki-Zo communities broke out in 2023, claiming hundreds of lives and displacing more than 50,000 people. The Internally Displaced Persons are demanding their rehabilitation amid the ongoing humanitarian crisis in the state.
Last year in November, a clash broke out between the Police, IDPs (Internally Displaced Persons) and people under the aegis of COCOMI (Coordinating Committee on Manipur Integrity), who were attempting to boycott the Sangai Festival.
Following the clash, police said that the law-and-order situation in the state was "normal." Senior officials of the government, including the Chief Secretary and the DGP, and other elected leaders attended the opening ceremony too, which was marked by cultural performances highlighting the state's rich cultural heritage.
— ANI
Reader Comments
While resettlement is crucial, the mention of NRC is worrying. In a sensitive state like Manipur, will this process be fair and not used to target communities? Rehabilitation must come first, with a focus on healing, not further division.
Actions speak louder than words. We've heard promises for over a year now. 50,000+ people are still displaced. The committee needs to have representatives from all affected communities to ensure trust and a fair process. Jai Hind.
This is a positive step. The humanitarian crisis needs urgent attention. I hope the central government provides full support. The cultural heritage of Manipur is beautiful, but its people's safety and future are paramount.
The cooperation between the former CM and current leadership is good to see. Politics should take a backseat here. The priority must be getting children back to school and families back to their livelihoods. Bharat stands with Manipur.
It's heartbreaking. So many lives disrupted. Resettlement is not just about buildings, it's about restoring community bonds and a sense of security. The committee must include mental health support in its plan.
We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.