Manipur crisis: Former CM Biren Singh says efforts under way to form popular government; says 'peace compulsory'

NEW DELHI: Manipur 's former chief minister N Biren Singh on Saturday said that efforts are under way to set up a popular government, while emphasising that Bharatiya Janata Party is working towards the restoration of peace in the state.

As Manipur has been boiling since May 2023, Singh resigned from his post as CM earlier this year, and the centre imposed President's rule in the state. More than 260 people lost their lives and thousands were rendered homeless after ethnic violence erupted between Meiteis and Kuki-Zo group.

Singh, who was speaking at an event at BJP state headquarters, expressed hope that a new government would be formed in the state soon.

"We are working to form a government at the earliest. We are a national party. After looking into the ground situation, I have faith that a government will be formed soon. BJP and its allies want a popular government as well. We are working for restoration of popular govt," he said.

"We, BJP, haven't criticised anybody. We are concentrating only on the present crisis. We are approaching the Central government and concerned persons to bring an amicable solution and peace in the state. In the meantime, we are also working to restore a popular government with frequent gatherings of MLAs. Everybody wants restoration of peace. Peace is compulsory. In the last seven or eight months, there have been no reports of fighting between communities," Singh added.