By Centre’s Urgent Measures to Contain Manipur Crisis
In response to escalating violence in Manipur, the Union government has sent an additional 5,000 paramilitary forces to the state. Union Home Minister Amit Shah, who canceled his political engagements to review the situation, is taking urgent steps to restore order. The situation in Manipur has worsened following a series of violent attacks, including the Jiribam killings, which have ignited protests across the state.
The deployment includes 35 units from the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) and 15 from the Border Security Force (BSF). These troops will support the local police forces in maintaining peace and preventing further violence.
Jiribam Killings Spark Violent Protests
On November 11, armed militants targeted a CRPF camp in Jiribam, leading to the kidnapping and subsequent murder of six members of a Meitei family. The bodies of five of the victims were found in a river, and the discovery of a sixth body on November 18 has further fueled protests in the region. The violence has also led to the death of Kh Athouba Singh, a young protester shot by security forces during a clash in Jiribam.
The attack in Jiribam has deepened the ethnic divide in Manipur, with protests spreading across the state, as people demand justice for the victims. The situation remains highly volatile, and the authorities are struggling to contain the unrest.
Reimposition of AFSPA and Internet Shutdown
To regain control over the deteriorating situation, the Centre has reimposed the Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA) in several areas of Manipur. This allows the armed forces to operate with greater powers in these volatile districts, aiming to suppress violence and insurgent activities.
Additionally, the government has extended the internet shutdown in the affected areas to curb the spread of fake news and rumors, which have contributed to the ongoing unrest. The suspension of internet services, particularly in the valley areas, is expected to help prevent further violence triggered by misinformation.
NIA Takes Over Investigation
As the situation intensifies, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) has registered cases concerning the Jiribam killings and the violence that followed. The NIA’s involvement signifies the gravity of the situation and the government’s commitment to investigating and dismantling any insurgent networks involved in these violent acts.
The agency’s investigation is expected to focus on the role of insurgent groups, particularly the Hmar militants, who are believed to be behind the attack on the CRPF camp and the subsequent kidnappings.
Efforts to Restore Stability in Manipur
While the immediate measures taken by the Centre, including the deployment of paramilitary forces and the reimposition of AFSPA, are essential in restoring order, long-term peace will require a comprehensive approach. The government will need to engage with ethnic groups and local communities to address the underlying causes of the violence.
The ongoing efforts to restore peace in Manipur highlight the complex challenges faced by the government in managing regional unrest. Only through sustained dialogue and cooperation can lasting peace be achieved in the state.