Mob vandalises, sets on fire Manipur CM's programme venue, internet suspended

The situation remains tense in Manipur after a mob vandalised and set on fire the venue where Chief Minister N Biren Singh is scheduled to attend a programme here at New Lamka in Churachandpur district.

The administration has suspended mobile internet data in the Churachandpur district with immediate effect and prohibitory orders under section 144 of the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC) were issued in the district to prevent any untoward incident in the district.

An order issued by an additional district magistrate, Churachandpur district, S Thienlatjoy Gangte cited reports of strong possibility of breach of peace, disturbance to public tranquility, and grave danger to human lives and properties in Churachandpur district.

"In addition, it is also learnt that a total shutdown in Churachandpur district has been called by the Indigenous Tribe Leaders Forum from 8 am to 4 pm on Friday and there is likelyhood of mobilisation of public for protest through social media and networking sites which could lead to escalation of public unrest and unlawful activities in Churachandpur," the order said.

"It is, therfore requested to kindly consider curbing and suspension of mobile internet in Churachandpur district with immediate effect and until the situation improves," it added.

Following the order, the assembly of five or more persons which is likely to turn unlawful and carrying sticks, stones, firearms, weapons, or objects of any description, which can be used as offensive weapons is prohibited in the district.

An angry mob managed to partially torch the newly set-up gym-cum-sports facility at New Lamka which Biren Singh is slated to inaugurate today.

Meanwhile, the Indigenous Tribe Leaders Forum has called for a total Churachandpur shutdown from 8 am to 4 pm.

The Forum has been objecting to the Biren Singh government's survey of reserved and protected forests and similar areas like wetlands.

They claimed that despite repeated requests to the government against an ongoing eviction drive to clear reserved forested areas of farmers and other tribal settlers, the government has shown any interest or sincerity in addressing the plight of the people.