Creation of 7 new districts by erstwhile Congress govt motivated by political interests: Manipur CM Biren Singh

Biren Singh added that the issues surrounding the creation of the new districts need to be addressed to prevent further discontent.

The creation of new districts was based on ethnic lines, Biren Singh alleged, adding that such mistakes when left unaddressed give birth to further ethnic divide. “People don’t consider themselves as Manipuri first. The majority community in a particular district consider themselves as the owner of the land,” asserted CM Biren Singh.

Accordingly, the CM called for the reorganisation of district boundaries based on genuine administrative convenience, rather than political or ethnic considerations. He assured the Assembly that consultations would be held with civil society organisations (CSOs), and tribal leaders to ensure that all voices are heard and that the resulting boundaries are fair and practical.

Keishing, in particular, expressed his concerns over the creation of Kangpokpi and Kamjong districts.

While Manipur initially had nine districts, the Congress Government carved out seven new districts despite opposition from Naga groups, particularly the United Naga Council (UNC). After the creation of the new districts, the UNC imposed one of the longest economic blockades in the country demanding the state government to roll back its decision.