Manipur , Nov 16, 2024, By Our Correspondent
Manipur was plunged into chaos on Saturday as widespread violence erupted across multiple districts following the recovery of the bodies of six missing women and children in Jiribam district. In response to the unrest, curfews were imposed in the districts of Imphal East, Imphal West, Bishnupur, and Thoubal, while mobile internet services were suspended in seven districts to prevent the spread of rumors and maintain public safety.
Curfew and Internet Suspension
A Home Department official confirmed that curfews were implemented under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) to control the escalating violence. Chief Secretary Vineet Joshi, in a government order, announced a two-day suspension of mobile internet and data services in Imphal West, Imphal East, Bishnupur, Thoubal, Kakching, Kangpokpi, and Churachandpur districts.
The decision came after mobs attacked residences of ministers, Members of the Legislative Assembly (MLAs), and government properties in the wake of the tragic discovery of six bodies in the violence-hit Jiribam district.
Deployment of Security Forces
In light of the deteriorating law and order situation, a large contingent of Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF), paramilitary forces, and state police personnel was deployed across affected areas. Senior officials coordinated efforts to control the violence and secure critical locations.
Angry mobs reportedly targeted homes of several political leaders and other government establishments. Security forces worked tirelessly to contain the violence and bring stability to the region.
Union Government's Directive
The Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) took note of the fragile security scenario and issued strict instructions to law enforcement agencies to restore peace and order. The ministry directed authorities to take firm action against individuals or groups engaging in violent activities.
“Armed miscreants from both communities have been indulging in violence, leading to loss of lives and disruption of public order,” stated the MHA. Key cases related to the ongoing violence have been handed over to the National Investigation Agency (NIA) for thorough investigation.
The MHA also appealed to the public to refrain from believing in rumors and to cooperate with authorities to maintain peace.
Discovery of Bodies
The spark for the renewed violence was the recovery of six bodies near the Jiri River in Jiribam district. On Friday evening, three bodies were found, followed by three more on Saturday. Though the bodies have yet to be officially identified, they are believed to be those of six Meitei women and children who had been missing since November 11.
The victims included an elderly woman, her two daughters, and three minor grandchildren, all of whom had been residing in a relief camp near the Borobekra police station following ethnic violence in Jiribam. The bodies were sent to Silchar Medical College and Hospital for post-mortem examinations.
Violent Background
The violence in Jiribam escalated earlier this week when suspected Kuki militants attacked a Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) camp, prompting a fierce encounter. The CRPF retaliated, killing 10 militants, who tribal organizations claimed were Hmar Village Volunteers.
During the subsequent search operations in Jakuradhor village, two elderly civilians were found dead, and two others were rescued. However, three women and three children remained unaccounted for until the discovery of the bodies.
Government and Community Response
Chief Minister N. Biren Singh convened an emergency meeting with senior ministers to discuss the volatile situation. A government statement condemned the killing of innocent civilians and labeled the acts as cowardly and inhumane.
The state cabinet decided to recommend that the Central government declare organizations responsible for these crimes as unlawful. It also resolved to take stringent action against individual perpetrators as per the law.
The cabinet acknowledged the efforts of civil society, community organizations, and central agencies working to promote peace and called for unity among all communities to resolve the ongoing ethnic crisis.
Call for Peace
Amid the violence, the government appealed to the people of Manipur to maintain peace and avoid spreading or believing in unverified information. It emphasized the importance of the ongoing peace process to bring about a resolution to the ethnic tensions that have gripped the state since June.
As tensions remain high, the focus shifts to restoring order and justice for the victims while addressing the underlying issues fueling the ethnic conflict. The government, security forces, and community leaders continue their efforts to navigate this challenging time and ensure lasting peace in the region.