Manipur Violence Update
Manipur is once again engulfed in violence following a clash between insurgents and security forces, leading to the abduction and murder of six individuals in Jiribam. The discovery of their bodies has triggered widespread unrest. Several ministers’ residences have been attacked, and protesters even attempted to target the Chief Minister’s house.
Manipur Violence Update
The situation escalated when six members of a single family were reportedly killed by Kuki insurgents. This act of brutality has enraged the Meitei community, prompting them to take to the streets in protest, demanding strict action against the perpetrators. Meanwhile, the Kuki community has dismissed the November 11 encounter as a staged incident, insisting that the deceased were village volunteers, not insurgents. They have refused to perform the last rites of the victims until they receive the post-mortem reports, suspecting foul play by the security forces.
Manipur Violence Update
As the unrest continues, schools across the state were closed on November 19, and internet services remain suspended. Both communities—Meitei and Kuki—are actively protesting. While the Meitei community is seeking justice for the murders, the Kuki community is demanding accountability for what they allege to be extrajudicial killings by security forces.
Manipur Violence Update
Union Home Minister Amit Shah has been closely monitoring the situation. On November 18, he conducted a review of the security measures in place and directed officials to prioritize restoring peace and order. To control the situation, the central government has deployed 50 additional companies of Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF), increasing the total deployment to 268 companies. This translates to around 26,800 personnel, with the latest reinforcements comprising 6,500 troops from CRPF, BSF, and other paramilitary units.
Manipur Violence Update
Efforts to curb violence include the imposition of curfews in districts like Imphal East, Imphal West, Bishnupur, Thoubal, and Kakching. The government has also extended internet shutdowns in seven districts for two additional days. Areas affected by the unrest, including Sekmai, Lamshang, Lamlai, Jiribam, Leimakhong, and Moirang, have also been placed under the Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA) since November 14.
Manipur Violence Update
The unrest was ignited by the discovery of the bodies of three women and three children, allegedly abducted by Kuki insurgents, near the Assam-Manipur border. The anger boiled over into violent protests, with mobs targeting government properties. The residences of three BJP MLAs, a Congress MLA, and Public Works Department Minister Govindas Konthoujam were vandalized and set on fire in areas like Ningthoukhong and Thoubal.
Manipur Violence Update
As the state grapples with these challenges, both the central and state governments are making concerted efforts to restore order while appealing to the public for peace.
