Former Manipur Chief Minister N. Biren Singh has strongly condemned the killing of Mayanglambam Rishikanta, describing it as a brutal and deeply disturbing incident aimed at derailing the ongoing peace process in the state.

In a statement on X, Biren Singh alleged that the murder was carried out by suspected UKNA militants at a time when an atmosphere of peace was gradually emerging and civil society organisations in the valley were extending goodwill towards indigenous communities under the Chin-Kuki fold.

Calling for swift and exemplary punishment, Singh urged authorities to immediately identify those responsible and declare the group involved as unlawful. He said firm action is necessary to ensure such acts do not undermine the efforts towards peace and stability by the central government, state government, and the people of Manipur.

Raising concerns over possible security lapses, the former Chief Minister stressed the need to examine how the killing could take place at such a crucial time, particularly as the area is not difficult terrain for security forces to operate. He demanded accountability from the concerned agencies for any failure in maintaining security.