CM of Nagaland Neiphiu Rio expresses worry about the turmoil in Manipur

Neiphiu Rio, the chief minister of Nagaland, voiced worry on Tuesday on the current violence in Manipur.

Rio said that the violence, deaths, and destruction of property in the adjoining state severely concerned him. Despite being the nearby state, Rio added, “I am very concerned about the problems there and don’t want to make unnecessary comments.”

Rio said, “I am deeply disturbed by the unabated incidents of violence in Manipur,” in his Twitter bio. It must stop when people die, when things are lost, and when sacred sites are destroyed. I earnestly urge our neighbours in our sister state to join forces for peace.

Regarding what happened to the Nagaland medical students who had returned from Imphal due to the current turmoil, Rio indicated that discussions had been made with the health and family welfare department about making plans to have them sent back so they may take an exam.

According to reports, the situation is tight but under control. I’m hoping they can return,” stated Rio.

However, according to state health department officials, all medical students from Nagaland have returned to Imphal to appear for their examinations, which were postponed at the state’s request.

With the assistance of the state government and the Assam Rifles, 162 students and physicians from the Regional Institute of Medical Sciences (RIMS) Imphal were evacuated on May 7 during the ethnic conflict in Manipur.

The ethnic conflict between the Meitei and Kuki communities in Manipur that started a month ago has claimed the lives of over 100 individuals.

Conflicts originally started on May 3 when the hill districts launched a “Tribal Solidarity March” to oppose the Meitei community’s desire for Scheduled Tribe (ST) designation.

The majority of Meiteis, who make up around 53% of Manipur’s population, reside in the Imphal Valley. Another 40% of the population is made up of the Naga and Kuki tribes, who live in the hill areas.