Photo Courtesy: India Today Group
Imphal: Manipur Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh confirmed on September 7 that the state government is reviewing individual criminal cases stemming from the violence that began May 3, 2023. The review follows a short-duration discussion in the Legislative Assembly initiated by opposition MLA K. Ranjit Singh. Khemchand noted that the 2023 crisis pushed many youths to arm themselves. He stated, "While some of them had good intentions, there could be others who indulge in criminal activities."
The state has not banned village volunteers in the hills and valley, nor has it banned the Meitei group Arambai Tenggol. Police arrests rely solely on evidence of individual criminal acts, not group affiliation. Khemchand admitted that the Manipur Police force saw its morale decline during the conflict, though officials are now working to rebuild the department. Criminal cases will not be withdrawn outright. Each case requires a separate, time-consuming study.
Home Minister Govindas Konthoujam reaffirmed a 2024 policy. The state will not prosecute individuals who avoided heinous crimes like murder, extortion, or attacks on security forces. He dismissed opposition claims of police harassment. The Chief Minister has ordered authorities to release people named in suo motu cases by agencies like the NIA after initial questioning. While Arambai Tenggol remains active, Kuki organizations have accused the group of deep involvement in the fighting. In 2025, members surrendered over 100 firearms after a call from then-Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla.
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