Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh announced on Friday that suspects involved in looting the properties of ministers and MLAs during the November 16 protests have been identified, with legal proceedings underway.
Speaking to media persons, Singh condemned the recent spate of vandalism, which included torching the photograph of a minister’s late father, looting the residence of an MLA, and firing at a car showroom.
He questioned whether such actions could truly be considered part of a democratic movement.
“In the name of democratic movement, some gangs have looted and burnt the residences of ministers and MLAs. Suspects have been identified through CCTV, and appropriate legal actions have been initiated. I feel ashamed to publicly say that such things are happening in Manipur,” Singh said.
He urged the public to refrain from actions that contribute to disruptions like the suspension of internet services. “Do not blame the government only. We need to correct ourselves as well,” he remarked.
Singh expressed support for genuine protests against the killing of women and children in Jiribam district but condemned politically motivated groups exploiting the unrest.
“Those politically motivated gangs who took advantage of the situation—we will take legal action against them,” he asserted.
The Chief Minister credited the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) for averting a potential tragedy in Jiribam on November 11, when militants attempted to overrun a relief camp and a police station.
“Had the CRPF not gunned down 10 or 11 militants, some 100 civilians would have been killed,” Singh claimed.
Assuring the public of ongoing efforts to improve the situation, Singh stated, “When the situation improves, we will make sure to lift the suspension on mobile internet. Operations are on to apprehend the attackers. The state government is not silent—we are also looking for them.”
He added that the government remains committed to protecting civilians’ lives and properties, while the National Investigation Agency (NIA) continues to probe the killings in Jiribam.
The ethnic violence in Manipur, which erupted in May last year, has claimed more than 220 lives and displaced thousands, with tensions reignited following the disappearance of six Meitei individuals from a Jiribam relief camp last week.
Singh also criticised Congress leader P Chidambaram for a now-deleted social media post advocating regional autonomy.
Addressing Rahul Gandhi’s call for the arrest of industrialist Gautam Adani over alleged bribery and fraud charges, Singh accused the United States of attempting to undermine India.
“Will India do what the US says? The allegations are baseless,” he declared.
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