Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat on Monday expressed concern over the protracted ethnic violence in Manipur, stating that the situation in the strife-torn northeastern state remains unresolved even after a year and should be addressed on priority.

Addressing RSS workers in Nagpur, Bhagwat said, "Manipur is waiting for peace for the last one year. There was peace in Manipur 10 years ago. It felt like gun culture had finished there. But the state has suddenly seen violence."

He emphasized the need to move beyond election rhetoric and focus on resolving the nation's pressing issues like the Manipur crisis. "The situation in Manipur will have to be considered with priority. There is need to get over election rhetoric and focus on problems facing the nation," the RSS chief asserted.

Manipur plunged into ethnic clashes between the Meitei and Kuki communities in May last year, resulting in over 200 deaths and the displacement of thousands of civilians who are now sheltered in relief camps. The violence has persisted despite efforts to restore normalcy.

Bhagwat's comments come amid recent attacks on security forces in the state. On Monday, suspected militants ambushed the advance security convoy of Manipur Chief Minister N. Biren Singh in Kangpokpi district, triggering a fierce gunbattle.