Imphal: Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh Monday reiterated his previous statement that the ongoing crisis in the state, which began in May last year, is a war between his government and illegal immigrants, as well as the drug mafia. Singh clarified that the unrest is not directed against any particular community.
Speaking at the Golden Jubilee celebration of the All Manipur Working Journalists’ Union at the Manipur Press Club, Singh recalled his early career as a journalist, during which he witnessed the influx of illegal immigrants from neighbouring countries and the escalating drug problem in Manipur.
He drew parallels to the historical “Seven Years Devastation” (1819-1826), a conflict between Manipur and the Burmese army, noting that despite such past experiences, adequate border fencing had not been put in place.
The Chief Minister emphasized that his primary goal is to protect the indigenous population and preserve Manipur’s historical integrity. However, he expressed frustration that some had attempted to frame his efforts as being against a particular community.
Singh firmly stated that the ongoing “War on Drugs” has never targeted any specific group, despite claims by vested interests to the contrary. He highlighted the government’s achievements, including the confiscation of illegal drugs worth approximately Rs. 60,000 crore and the destruction of around 18,000 hectares of poppy cultivation.
Singh also addressed concerns regarding the government’s efforts to protect forest lands, which some have portrayed as discriminatory. He clarified that evictions were carried out against any community that had encroached upon reserved forest land, not selectively.
In his address to media professionals, the Chief Minister urged rigorous fact-checking and discouraged the sensationalization of events, especially in light of the state’s sensitive situation.
The event was also attended by Minister for IPR Dr. Sapam Ranjan Singh, AMWJU President Bijoy Kakchingtabam, President of the Editors’ Guild of Manipur Khogendra Khomdram, as well as media representatives, special invitees, government officials, and family members of senior journalists and founding members of the AMWJU.
