Imphal : Former Manipur Chief Minister Nongthombam Biren Singh on Thursday expressed hope that the law and order situation in the state would improve following recent security measures initiated by the Central government and administrative changes aimed at restoring stability.

Speaking to reporters after visiting the Jawaharlal Nehru Institute of Medical Sciences (JNIMS) in Imphal, Biren Singh condemned the killing of six persons believed to be Naga hostages and extended his condolences to their families.

The former chief minister met the bereaved relatives at the institute, where the bodies have been kept for identification and post-mortem examination. Biren Singh said recent developments indicate efforts to strengthen the security framework in the conflict-hit state.

According to him, the deployment of specialised security personnel, including the CoBRA unit, and recent changes in departments responsible for law and order management could help improve the prevailing situation.

He expressed optimism that these measures would contribute to restoring normalcy and enhancing public confidence in the administration’s ability to maintain peace. Describing the deaths as deeply tragic, Biren Singh said the loss of lives had caused immense pain and sorrow.

He condemned the killings in strong terms and conveyed his sympathies to the families of the victims. “The loss of innocent lives is painful, and my heartfelt condolences go out to the bereaved families,” he said while interacting with the media after the hospital visit.

The former chief minister’s visit came amid growing concern over the recovery of the six bodies, which has intensified tensions in parts of the state. Appealing for restraint, Biren Singh stressed that violence cannot be a solution to any issue and urged all communities to pursue peaceful means of resolving differences.

He said disputes and grievances should be addressed through dialogue, discussions and negotiations rather than confrontation.

“Violence has no place in society. Problems can be resolved through talks and mutual understanding,” he said, calling upon all sections of society to contribute towards restoring harmony and stability.

The BJP leader also underscored the importance of public participation in peace-building efforts, stating that lasting peace can only be achieved through collective cooperation among communities.

The six bodies brought to JNIMS are believed to be those of six individuals who were reportedly abducted on May 13 from Leilol Vaiphei village in Kangpokpi district. Authorities recovered the bodies recently and transported them to the medical institute in Imphal for identification and other legal formalities.

The incident has sparked widespread concern and renewed calls for justice, with several organisations demanding a thorough investigation and accountability for those responsible. The latest development comes at a time when Manipur continues to grapple with ethnic tensions and security challenges that have affected several districts over the past months.

Security agencies have intensified operations in vulnerable areas, while community leaders and political representatives have repeatedly appealed for peace and reconciliation.

Biren Singh reiterated that restoring law and order remains essential for the state’s recovery and urged all stakeholders to work together to ensure that peace, stability and normalcy return to Manipur at the earliest.