Independence day observed amid general strike in Manipur

Imphal, Aug 15 (UNI) Manipur today celebrated Independence day amid boycott and general strike called by militants.

Chief Minister O Ibobi Singh unfurled the tricolour at the 1st Manipur Rifles parade ground. He reviewed the parade participated by about 35 parade contingents led by CO, 2nd IRB.

Speaking on the occasion, the Chief Minister appealed to all to work for peace and development and eschew the path of violence.

Various cultural programmes were also held.

The Chief Minister distributed prizes to the security personnel.

The President's Police medal for distinguished service was conferred on A Romenkumar, IPS, ADG, Manipur Police. The Police Medal for meritorious service was given to E, Priyokumar, Commandant, Laxmi Prasad, Commandant, and L.Ishwarlal, Asst Commandant. The Police medal for gallantry was awarded to 21 police personnel.

Meanwhile, security measures were taken following the general strike called by the militants. The streets wore a deserted look and shops kept their shutters down.

Four militant groups of the north eastern had called for boycott of Independence day celebrations. The Kamatapur Liberation Organisation (KLO) , Manipur People's Liberation Front (MPLF), Tripura People's Democratic Front (TPDF) and United Liberation Front of Asom (ULFA) had called a general strike from 1 am to 6 pm today throughout the region.

Police said police commandos and personnel from the India Reserve Battalion and Manipur Rifles had been deployed at all strategic locations at the capital as pre-emptive measure.

Besides, the state forces along with para-military forces like BSF, CRPF and Army have been deployed in adequate strength at Bishnupur and Thoubal districts. No untoward incident was reported so far, police stated UNI NS KK AB 1547