Manipur’s Director General of Police (DGP), Rajiv Singh, has asserted that peaceful dialogue remains the sole viable path to resolving the ongoing ethnic conflict within the state. This conflict has tragically claimed over 260 lives and displaced thousands from their homes, particularly impacting Meitei and Kuki-Zo communities since May 2023.
During the 134th Raising Day event in Imphal on Sunday, October 19, 2025, DGP Singh acknowledged the severity of the situation. “These are truly challenging times,” he stated, “but we are committed to addressing them with our utmost capabilities and the collective support of all citizens.” He further lamented the extensive damage to property and the profound disruption to daily life caused by the unrest.
Singh emphasized the urgency of finding solutions, expressing a strong desire for peace and normalcy to return as swiftly as possible. He noted a positive trend, stating, “While challenges persist, the past eighteen months have seen significant improvements, with a noticeable decrease in violence, fatalities, and injuries.”
Despite these improvements, the DGP confirmed that isolated incidents of arson and firing still occur. However, he assured the public that security forces remain vigilant and are actively working to prevent any further escalation of tensions.
DGP Singh made a heartfelt plea to both communities embroiled in the conflict. “I urge both sides to step forward, offer suggestions, and engage in meaningful discussions,” he stated. “The singular solution to this complex issue lies in peaceful dialogue between the Meitei and Kuki communities, ensuring all stakeholders are heard and considered.” He reiterated the commitment of the Manipur Police to being a civilian-friendly force.
The officer also highlighted instances where security forces exercised restraint, choosing not to escalate situations that could have otherwise resulted in significant harm to innocent civilians.
Earlier, at the 1st Manipur Rifles parade ground, Mr. Singh reported significant achievements by law enforcement over the past year. He announced the recovery of 3,014 illegal arms and 30,000 rounds of ammunition, alongside the voluntary surrender of over 1,000 illegally held weapons and 15,000 rounds. Additionally, 445 Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) and 809 hand grenades were confiscated, and 26 insurgents were detained under the National Security Act.
Due to the ongoing ethnic strife, the central government previously imposed President’s rule in Manipur following the resignation of Chief Minister N. Biren Singh. The State Assembly, whose term extends until 2027, currently remains in suspended animation. Coincidentally, the Manipur Police observed its 134th Raising Day on Sunday, October 19, 2025, marked by ceremonial parade shows, as confirmed in a statement issued on Monday, October 20, 2025.
The official statement detailed the 134th Raising Day celebrations: “The Manipur Police marked its 134th Raising Day on Sunday, October 19, 2025, with a grand parade at the 1MR (Manipur Rifles) Ground. Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla attended as the chief guest, overseeing the event where twelve contingents of the Manipur Police participated, alongside an impressive skill demonstration by their sports personnel.”
A special award was also presented to Additional SP Saikhom Mirabai Chanu, recognizing her remarkable achievements in weightlifting. She secured a gold medal at the Commonwealth Weightlifting Championships in Ahmedabad in August 2025 and a silver medal at the World Weightlifting Championships 2025 in Forde, Norway.
The DGP Manipur also revealed that the Governor-in-Council recently sanctioned a proposal from the police headquarters to revise the annual uniform allowance. This will see Manipur Police Service (MPS) officers receive ₹8,000 and Junior Commissioned Officers (including Inspectors, Subedars, Sub-Inspectors, and Jemadars) receive ₹6,000. This marks the first revision in 36 years, as the previous allowance was set in 1989. Concluding the announcements, Kangpokpi Police Station was honored with the prestigious DGP Manipur Trophy for Best Police Station of 2025.