Manipur CM Defends Evacuation Strategy Amid Ethnic Violence

Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh defended his government's decision to evacuate citizens amid ethnic violence in May last year. He explained that the move was necessary for safety, despite opposition queries. Singh highlighted ongoing efforts to restore peace and ensure displaced individuals return home.

Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh has staunchly defended his government's decision to evacuate citizens amid the ethnic violence that erupted in May last year. Responding to opposition queries about the relocation of people from Churachandpur and Moreh to Imphal Valley, Singh emphasized the urgency and necessity of the action taken.

"The night violence broke out, we couldn't sleep. We were in the office discussing immediate actions," Singh stated. He explained that affected individuals in Moreh were initially sheltered at an Assam Rifles camp, while those in Churachandpur were taken to the Secretariat. "With saving lives being our top priority, the government decided to evacuate them," he added.

Singh noted that mobs numbering in the tens of thousands had gathered, making it impossible to control the situation without resorting to extreme measures. He pointed out that efforts are still being made to ensure displaced people can safely return home, and that peace initiatives are currently ongoing.

(With inputs from agencies.)