Manipur Violence: Centre Directs Security Forces To Restore Peace & Order

The Ministry of Home Affairs has directed the security forces to take necessary steps to restore peace in the northeastern state.

It comes after six civilians, including women and children, were abducted and allegedly killed by armed militants from the Jiribam district.

In a statement, the Home Ministry said, "The security scenario in Manipur has remained fragile for the past few days. Armed miscreants from both communities in conflict have been indulging in violence leading to unfortunate loss of lives and disruption in public order.

All the security forces have been directed to take the necessary steps to restore order and peace. Strict action would be initiated against anyone trying to indulge in violent and disruptive activities. Important cases have been handed over to NIA for effective investigation."

The ministry has appealed to the public to maintain peace and not believe in rumours. It has requested the public to cooperate with the security forces to maintain law and order in the State.

The fresh cycle of violence hit Manipur last when 11 suspected militants, allegedly attacked a police station and adjoining CRPF camp with sophisticated weapons in Manipur's Jiribam district.

The fresh directive followed the Manipur government's decision to reimpose the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA) across the state on October 1, excluding 19 police station areas. These excluded areas are: Imphal, Lamphal, City, Singjamei, Sekmai, Lamsang, Patsoi, Wangoi, Porompat, Heingang, Lamlai, Irilbung, Leimakhong, Thoubal, Bishnupur, Nambol, Moirang, Kakching, and Jiribam.

Under AFSPA, an area is designated as "disturbed" to enable armed forces to conduct operations. The act grants the military extensive powers, including the authority to search, arrest, and use force, including lethal measures, if deemed necessary to maintain public order.

AFSPA has now been reimposed in specific areas: Sekmai and Lamsang in Imphal West district, Lamlai in Imphal East district, Jiribam in Jiribam district, Leimakhong in Kangpokpi district, and Moirang in Bishnupur district.

Since May last year, ethnic violence between Meiteis from the Imphal Valley and Kuki-Zo communities from the adjoining hills has resulted in over 200 deaths and thousands being displaced.

Jiribam, known for its ethnic diversity and relatively peaceful stance during earlier clashes, saw violence erupt in June this year following the discovery of a mutilated farmer's body in a field.