Title: U.S. Ambassador in India: We Regret Ethnic Violence

U.S. Ambassador to India Eric Garcetti expressed regret regarding the ethnic violence that occurred in Manipur, northeastern India, yesterday. He stated, "This is an Indian issue, and Washington is ready to help if New Delhi requests it." Garcetti added, "You don't have to be Indian to care when children are killed in violence of this nature." He remarked, "Significant progress has been made in the northeastern states. We are ready and able to help if asked, but we know this is an Indian matter. We can offer more cooperation, more projects, and more investment if peace can be achieved." The violence in Manipur erupted after a court suggested in February that the special benefits enjoyed by the Kuki, who make up 16% of the state's population, should also include members of the Meitei community, which is the majority there.