Manipur’s Director General of Police (DGP), Rajiv Singh, has asserted that peaceful dialogue remains the sole viable path to resolve the state’s severe ethnic conflict. Since May 2023, this violence has tragically claimed over 260 lives and displaced thousands, involving clashes between the Meitei and Kuki-Zo communities.
During the 134th Raising Day event in Imphal on Sunday, October 19, 2025, the DGP acknowledged the immensely challenging period, stating, “We are striving to manage these difficulties with our utmost capacity and with the full cooperation of all.” He highlighted the extensive damage to property and the profound disruption to daily life caused by the unrest.
Singh emphasized the urgent need for resolution, stating, “We are working to resolve these issues as quickly as possible, as we, too, desire a swift return to peace and normalcy.” He noted positive developments over the past eighteen months, including a reduction in violence, fatalities, and injuries.
While isolated incidents of arson and gunfire still occur, the DGP assured that security forces remain vigilant and are actively working to prevent any escalation.
He urged both the Meitei and Kuki communities to step forward with proposals and engage in dialogue. “The sole path to resolving this issue is through peaceful negotiations between both communities, ensuring all stakeholders are included,” the DGP stated. He further highlighted that the Manipur Police operates as a civilian-friendly force.
The officer explained that in certain situations, security forces intentionally held back to avoid causing further harm to innocent civilians.
Earlier, addressing attendees at the 1st Manipur Rifles parade ground, Mr. Singh reported significant progress: “Over the past year, authorities have recovered 3,014 illegal arms and 30,000 rounds of ammunition. Additionally, more than 1,000 illegally held weapons and 15,000 rounds of ammunition were surrendered to security forces.” He also mentioned the recovery of 445 improvised explosive devices (IEDs) and 809 hand grenades, leading to the detention of 26 insurgents under the National Security Act during the same period.
Due to the ethnic unrest, the Central government had previously imposed President’s rule in Manipur following the resignation of Chief Minister N. Biren Singh. The State Assembly, whose term extends until 2027, is currently suspended. In a statement released on Monday, October 20, 2025, it was announced that the Manipur Police commemorated its 134th Raising Day with parade demonstrations on Sunday, October 19, 2025.
The statement detailed that on Sunday, October 19, 2025, the Manipur Police observed its 134th Raising Day with a ceremonial parade at the 1st Manipur Rifles Ground. Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla presided over the event as the chief guest. The parade featured twelve contingents of the Manipur Police, alongside a dynamic skill demonstration by the force’s sports personnel.
During the celebrations, Additional SP Saikhom Mirabai Chanu was honored with a special award. Chanu had 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 of Manipur also announced that the Governor-in-Council recently approved a proposal from the police headquarters (PHQ) to revise the annual uniform allowance. Manipur Police Service (MPS) officers will now receive ₹8,000, and Junior Commissioned Officers (including Inspectors, Subedars, Sub-Inspectors, and Jemadars) will receive ₹6,000. This marks the first change to the uniform allowance in 36 years, as it had been fixed since 1989. Furthermore, Kangpokpi Police Station was honored with the DGP Manipur Trophy for Best Police Station in 2025.