Union Home Minister Amit Shah intensified efforts to address the escalating violence in Manipur by holding a high-level review meeting on Sunday in New Delhi. Shah, who cut short his Maharashtra election campaign to return to the capital, met with top officials from the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) and security agencies to discuss the situation.
“The Home Minister instructed senior security officials to implement all possible measures to restore peace and normalcy in the state,” a senior official stated. Shah plans to conduct another meeting on Monday, with senior officials, including Chief Security Advisor to the Manipur government Kuldiep Singh, Chief Secretary Vineet Joshi, and Director General of Police Rajiv Singh, expected to join virtually from Imphal.
Call for Order Amid Fragile Security Situation
The MHA on Saturday highlighted the fragile security scenario in Manipur, citing incidents of armed violence between conflicting communities that resulted in loss of lives and disrupted public order. Shah emphasized a zero-tolerance approach, instructing strict action against individuals engaging in violence and vandalism.
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The ministry handed over key cases to the National Investigation Agency (NIA) for thorough investigations. It also urged citizens to avoid rumors and cooperate with security forces to stabilize the situation.
Widespread Violence Sparks Curfew and Arrests
Violence erupted on Saturday and Sunday, with mobs targeting and vandalizing around two dozen properties belonging to ministers, MLAs, and political leaders, especially in Imphal East and West districts. Security forces, including Assam Rifles, the Border Security Force (BSF), and state police commandos, responded with tear gas and rubber bullets, leaving over 15 people injured.
In response to the escalating unrest, authorities imposed an indefinite curfew in five districts—Imphal East, Imphal West, Bishnupur, Thoubal, and Kakching. Additionally, mobile internet and data services were suspended for two days across seven districts to curb misinformation and maintain order.
Unidentified Bodies Found Near Manipur-Assam Border
The violence intensified after news broke about the discovery of six bodies near the confluence of the Jiri and Barak rivers along the Manipur-Assam border. Believed to belong to women and children missing since November 11, the bodies were sent to Silchar Medical College and Hospital in Assam for post-mortem examinations.
Protests Disrupt Daily Life
Protesters blocked roads in Imphal by burning tyres and piling up debris, halting vehicular movement. Police arrested 25 individuals involved in ransacking and arson in various districts.
As the situation remains volatile, Shah’s directives aim to restore stability while addressing the root causes of the violence. However, the path to peace in Manipur will require continued vigilance and decisive action.
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