Imphal, April 25, 2026: In an effort to ease the prevailing situation in the state, Chief Minister N. Biren Singh on Saturday held a series of meetings with representatives from various localities, calling for peace and urging all stakeholders to come together for dialogue.
Addressing media persons after the meetings at the Chief Minister’s Secretariat, the Chief Minister emphasized that there is no alternative to peace except through discussions. He stated that meaningful resolution can only be achieved when all parties sit together at the negotiating table.
Highlighting the impact of the ongoing unrest, he noted that the situation has caused significant hardships for daily wage earners and has disrupted the academic environment for children across the state. He stressed that the government alone cannot restore peace unless it is supported by the public and Civil Society Organisations (CSOs). Reiterating his appeal, he invited all stakeholders to participate in dialogue to find lasting solutions.
On the Tronglaobi incident, the Chief Minister informed that the State Cabinet has decided to provide government jobs to the parents of the children who lost their lives. He clarified that the decision was taken purely on humanitarian grounds and not in response to any demands from Joint Action Committees (JACs) or the affected families. He also assured that all efforts are being made to ensure that the culprits are apprehended at the earliest.
Speaking on the occasion, Home Minister Govindas Konthoujam stated that the government has so far exercised restraint and allowed democratic and non-violent protests. He noted that the Chief Minister had met multiple groups who arrived at the Secretariat following the public rally held earlier in the day.
The Home Minister further revealed that some individuals identifying themselves as members of the Coordinating Committee on Manipur Integrity (COCOMI) had submitted a memorandum containing seven questions. He added that the government had earlier invited COCOMI for discussions on their grievances, but the invitation was declined.
Responding to the concerns raised, he reiterated that safeguarding all indigenous communities remains a firm commitment of the state government. He asserted that the government will not tolerate any form of terrorism, including narco-terrorism and unlawful possession of arms and ammunition, which threaten public safety. He also noted that the Government of India has set a target to eliminate all forms of terrorism in the North East by 2029.
Regarding the Tronglaobi case, the Minister stated that the investigation has been handed over to the National Investigation Agency (NIA), and a team led by an Inspector General has already visited the site.
On the issue of internally displaced persons (IDPs), he said that arrangements have been made for their return to their respective homes. However, the process has been delayed due to the prevailing situation and trust deficit among communities. He added that the Chief Minister has been visiting relief camps of displaced persons from both communities whenever possible.
The Minister also clarified that the State government cannot take a unilateral decision regarding the abrogation of the Suspension of Operation (SoO) agreement, as it involves the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), which plays a central role in the tripartite agreement.
The press conference, held at the Chief Minister’s Secretariat, was attended by Deputy Chief Minister Shri Losi Dikho, Tourism Minister, MLAs, and other officials.
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