Manipur’s state security advisor, Kuldiep Singh, announced that the Centre will deploy an additional 90 companies of the Central Armed Police Force (CAPF) to help restore peace in the violence-hit state, which has been plagued by ethnic unrest since May of the previous year. This move comes on top of the 198 CAPF companies that are already stationed in Manipur.
Speaking at a press conference following a security review meeting, Singh emphasized the severity of the situation, revealing that ethnic violence in the state has resulted in 258 deaths. “We had a security review meeting today, where we discussed the safety of all districts and Imphal city. Officials from the Army, police, CRPF, BSF, and ITBP were present. We are united in tackling the issues that arise,” Singh said.
During the meeting, it was confirmed that the additional CAPF personnel would be deployed in stages, with 70 companies already having arrived in Imphal. Singh expressed confidence that the increased deployment would help maintain peace and stability across the region.
Additionally, Singh reported that authorities had made significant progress in addressing the violence and unrest. A total of 32 people were arrested in connection with the vandalism and arson targeting properties belonging to ministers and MLAs. Furthermore, nearly 3,000 looted firearms have been recovered in recent operations.
In a separate development, Manipur Chief Minister N. Biren Singh also addressed the ongoing tensions. He confirmed that suspects involved in the looting and destruction of ministerial and legislative properties during the protests on November 16 had been identified through CCTV footage. Legal actions have been initiated against the perpetrators.
Singh condemned the actions of the gangs involved, saying, “In the name of democratic movement, some gangs have looted and burned the residences of ministers and MLAs. I feel ashamed to publicly say that such things are happening in Manipur.” The Chief Minister also highlighted a deadly clash in Jiribam, where CRPF forces had to intervene to prevent an attack on a relief camp and police station, claiming that without the timely action, the attackers would have killed up to 100 civilians.
With the new deployment and ongoing operations, authorities hope to restore order in the state and provide a safer environment for its citizens as the region grapples with the ethnic violence that has left a deep mark on Manipur.
Sources By Agencies
