Fresh violence erupts in Manipur ahead of Amit Shah's visit: Cop among 5 dead
Imphal, May 29: In a fresh wave of violence that swept across Manipur, at least five individuals, including a policeman, lost their lives, while 12 others sustained injuries. The state has already been grappling with ethnic clashes that have claimed the lives of approximately 80 people.
The latest outbreak of violence occurred as alleged terrorists, armed with sophisticated weapons, set fire to numerous houses in the Serou and Sugunu areas.
This disturbing incident took place just hours before the scheduled visit of Home Minister Amit Shah to the violence-stricken state. Chief Minister N Biren Singh revealed that a total of "40 terrorists" had been neutralized over the past few days.
Also Read: IMD forecasts rain in north Indian states for next 3-4 hours
The terrorists, armed with M-16 and AK-47 assault rifles, as well as sniper guns, have been ruthlessly targeting civilians and burning down homes in multiple villages. The state government, in collaboration with the army and other security forces, has taken decisive action against these perpetrators.
Chief Minister Singh expressed his condemnation of the premeditated surge in violent attacks against civilians on the outskirts of the Imphal valley over the past two days. Meanwhile, Home Minister Amit Shah, during his visit, urged both the Meitei and Kuki communities to maintain peace, restore normalcy, and work towards resolving the ongoing crisis. Prior to his visit, Mr. Shah held extensive meetings with representatives of the Meitei and Kuki communities, as well as other stakeholders, to assess the measures being implemented to restore peace in the state.
To address the prevailing law and order situation, Army Chief General Manoj Pande also visited Manipur on Saturday for a comprehensive review. The violence that erupted last month originated from protests by tribal groups, predominantly the Kukis, against the Meitei community's demand for inclusion in the Scheduled Tribes category, which would grant them reservation benefits and access to forest lands. Tensions had escalated due to the eviction of Kuki villagers from reserve forest land, leading to a series of smaller agitations.
To prevent further escalation, the government has imposed curfews and internet bans in several areas affected by the violence. The authorities remain committed to restoring peace and stability to the region, while investigations and efforts for reconciliation continue in earnest.
Also Read: BSF foils attempt to smuggle narcotics: Pakistan drone intercepted near Amritsar border
- With inputs from agencies
