In a significant statement regarding the ongoing ethnic conflict in Manipur, the state’s Director General of Police, Rajiv Singh, has asserted that peaceful dialogue is the sole viable solution to restore normalcy and resolve the deep-seated issues. Speaking in Imphal on Sunday during the 134th Raising Day of the Manipur Police, DGP Singh acknowledged the immense challenges faced by the state but highlighted the concerted efforts being made to manage the situation with the best possible resources and public cooperation.
“These are very challenging times,” DGP Singh stated, “but we have been trying to tackle them with the best possible strength, and with the cooperation of everyone.” He further elaborated on the government’s commitment to addressing the problems promptly, driven by the shared desire for peace and normalcy. “There has been a lot of damage and normal life has been disrupted… But things have improved in the last one-and-a-half years,” he added, pointing to a reduction in violence, fatalities, and injuries. While acknowledging sporadic incidents, he assured the public that security forces remain vigilant to prevent any escalation.
Appealing directly to the communities involved, the DGP urged, “I request communities on both sides to come forward with suggestions and try to talk it out.” He reiterated that embracing peaceful dialogue, while considering all stakeholders, is paramount to finding a lasting resolution.
DGP Singh also took the opportunity to reaffirm the Manipur Police’s commitment to being a civilian-friendly force. He mentioned instances where security forces exercised restraint to prevent collateral damage to innocent civilians.
Highlighting the security forces’ operational successes over the past year, Singh revealed that a substantial number of illegal arms and ammunition have been recovered. Specifically, “as many as 3,014 illegal arms and 30,000 rounds of ammunition have been recovered, while over 1,000 illegally possessed arms along with 15,000 ammunition have been surrendered before security forces.” Additionally, 445 Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) and 809 hand grenades were seized, and 26 insurgents were detained under the National Security Act.