The conflict, which began in May 2023, has primarily involved clashes between the majority Meitei community and the minority Kuki groups. These tensions have resulted in over 250 fatalities and have displaced approximately 60,000 individuals. The violence has been attributed to disputes over economic benefits and job quotas, with both communities accusing each other of bias and discrimination.
Singh, a member of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Bharatiya Janata Party , has faced mounting criticism over his handling of the crisis. Kuki groups have long accused him of favoring the Meitei community, leading to calls for his resignation. Additionally, allies within the BJP have expressed dissatisfaction with his leadership during this period of unrest.
In his resignation letter, Singh expressed gratitude to the central government for its efforts to protect Manipur's interests. He also emphasized the need for continued action to curb border infiltration and address illegal immigration, issues he has previously linked to the state's internal strife.
The resignation occurred just ahead of a scheduled legislative assembly session, where the opposition Congress party was expected to move a no-confidence motion against Singh. Following his resignation, the governor accepted it and requested that Singh continue in his role until alternative arrangements are made.
This is not the first time Singh has attempted to step down amid the ongoing violence. In 2023, he sought to resign but was persuaded to remain in office after supporters protested and tore up his resignation letter.
The ethnic tensions in Manipur have deep historical roots, with both the Meitei and Kuki communities vying for economic and political advantages. The Meitei community has expressed concerns over an influx of refugees from Myanmar following the 2021 military coup there, fearing demographic changes and increased competition for resources. Conversely, the Kuki community has accused the state government of encroaching on their ancestral lands and neglecting their development needs.