Assam Rifles claims CM Biren Singh fueled Manipur violence

Imphal: The Assam Rifles has reportedly pointed fingers at Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh, with paramilitary forces ascribing the ongoing violence in the state to the chief minister’s “political dictatorship and ambitions”.
According to an Al Jazeera report, the policies of the BJP-led governments in Manipur and at the Center have allegedly exacerbated communal tensions and fueled divisions in the northeastern state.
Notably, the Congress party termed the situation in Manipur as a “BJP-created crisis” and accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi of shirking responsibility for the growing conflict.
A presentation seen by The Reporters Collective, as cited by Al Jazeera, outlined several policies that apparently target the Kukis, “tacit support of state forces” for clashes and erosion of law and order machinery.
This clear assessment by a federal government agency marks a significant development, especially in light of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent claim that timely intervention has significantly improved the situation in Manipur.
However, ongoing violence belies these claims, highlighting the challenges facing the state.
The Assam Rifles’ review identified various factors as contributing to the conflict, including the influx of “illegal immigrants” from neighboring Myanmar, the demand for a national register of citizens to curb migration, and Kukiland’s Resurgence of calls for—a separate administrative unit sought by the Kuki leadership.

The spiral of violence, which began with a “Tribal Solidarity March” last year, has claimed over 200 lives and displaced thousands in Manipur.

Kuki leaders have accused the Meitei Leepun group, reportedly influenced by the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), of orchestrating attacks against the Kuki community, while Arambai Tenggol has been allegedly implicated in targeting Naga community members.

Arambai Tenggol’s demands, including delisting Kukis from the scheduled tribes list and revoking the Suspension of Operations agreement, have further inflamed tensions.

Reports indicate that lawmakers have pledged support for these demands, exacerbating the conflict and deepening communal rifts.