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● CM APOLOGISES FOR LOSS OF LIVES DUE TO ETHNIC STRIFE ● URGES PEOPLE TO FORGIVE AND FORGET PAST MISTAKES

- Prasanta Mazumdar @Guwahati

ON the New Year's eve, Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh apologised to the people of the state for the loss of lives during the ethnic violence.

“I feel regret and I want to say sorry to the people of the state for what happened since May 3 last year. Many people lost their loved ones. Many people left their homes. So, I really feel regret and would like to apologise to all natives,” Singh said at a press conference.

Pointing out that there has been some progress towards peace in the last three-four months, he said he was hopeful about the return of normalcy and peace on the New Year.

“Whatever happened has happened. We have to forgive and forget the past mistakes and make a new beginning for a peaceful and prosperous Manipur,” the CM said, adding, “We all recognise 34-35 tribes. We should live together in the future.” While over 200 people died in the ethnic violence, 12,247 FIRs were registered and 625 accused arrested. Also, 5,600 arms and 35,000 ammunitions were recovered.