Central Armed Police Force Reinforcements Arrive in Imphal Amid Rising Violence in Manipur

Officials reported that eight companies of the Central Armed Police Force (CAPF) arrived in Imphal, Manipur, on Wednesday. This deployment follows the arrival of 11 CAPF companies a day earlier. The recent surge in violence in the region prompted this action. The newly arrived forces include four companies each from the CRPF and BSF, with one CRPF company being from the Mahila Battalion.

Security forces have been tasked with maintaining order in sensitive and fringe areas of Manipur. The central government recently announced plans to deploy an additional 50 CAPF companies to the state. This decision comes amid escalating tensions, with political offices being targeted by mobs. Last week, offices of both the Congress and BJP were vandalised in Jiribam district.

Violence and Curfews in Imphal Valley

The unrest intensified after mobs set fire to homes belonging to three BJP legislators, including a senior minister, and a Congress MLA. These incidents occurred across various districts in Imphal Valley, leading to an indefinite curfew being imposed. Security forces successfully prevented agitators from attacking the ancestral home of Manipur's chief minister last Saturday evening.

The violence has roots in ethnic tensions between the Meitei community in Imphal Valley and the Kuki-Zo groups from neighbouring hill areas. Since May last year, over 220 people have died, and thousands have been displaced due to these conflicts. The situation worsened after a gunfight on November 11 between security forces and suspected Kuki-Zo militants resulted in 10 insurgent deaths.

Tragic Losses and Community Tensions

In a tragic turn of events, three women and three children from the Meitei community went missing from a relief camp in Jiribam district following the gunfight. Their bodies were discovered over several days, further fuelling tensions between the communities. The ongoing violence highlights deep-rooted ethnic divisions that continue to challenge peace efforts in Manipur.

The central government's response aims to restore stability by increasing security presence throughout the state. However, achieving lasting peace will require addressing underlying issues contributing to these ethnic conflicts. As authorities work towards this goal, maintaining order remains a priority for both local and central forces.