Manipur Chief Minister Inspects On-Ground Situation After Fresh Violence

Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh today visited the hills adjoining Bishnupur and Churachandpur and inspected the on-ground situation. Earlier on June 30, N Biren Singh clarified that he will not resign from his post "at this crucial juncture" amid the growing calls for his resignation. Ethnic violence erupted in the State on May 3 after clashes during a rally organized by the All-Tribal Students Union (ATSU) to protest against the demand for including Meiteis in the list of Scheduled Tribes (STs). Thousands of people are in relief camps. More than 100 people have lost their lives in the ethnic violence between Meitei and Kuki communities in the northeastern state so far. Meiteis account for about 53 per cent of Manipur's population and live mostly in the Imphal Valley. Tribals -- Nagas and Kukis -- constitute another 40 per cent of the population and reside in the hill districts.