IMPHAL —
Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh on Sunday said his government was working
for the development of the state despite the ethnic conflict that has been
going on since May 2023.
Addressing the Republic Day function at the Manipur Rifles
Ground in Imphal, he said it is everyone's duty to "save and defend"
the state.
"I thank everyone who has come here from different
parts of the state, including Churachandpur, Kangpokpi, Senapati and Tengnoupal
district, as well as the CRPF and Assam Rifles, and the Nagaland
contingent," Singh said.
(N Biren Singh on X)
"A new Manipur, which reflects the peace and love of
the past, can be seen on the occasion of this Republic Day. Let the almighty
creator God give us a direction of peace from today," he added.
The CM said that even though the state has been witnessing
conflict since May 2023, continuous work is underway for development with the
help of elected legislators and officials.
"On this day, with the support of the people, we can
see a new Manipur. To save and defend Manipur is our duty. A strong and united
India can be achieved with the contributions of strong and united states. We
must all strive to make the country a superpower in the world," he said.
Noting the participation of armed forces in the parade,
Singh said they did not belong to any community but were serving India.
"Every security personnel and government official
should work with unity and as Indians, keeping their community on the side,"
he said.
Republic Day was also celebrated at all government offices
across the state with the unfurling of the national flag.