Manipur CM N Biren Singh appeals for peace and harmony; warns stern action against those indulged in violence

Army and Assam Rifles conducted flag march and aerial reconnaissance in areas of Churachandpur and Imphal

As situation continues to be volatile in different parts of Manipur, Chief Minister N Biren Singh today appealed for peace and harmony.

“Manipur is a state in which we have all co-existed for centuries. We should not allow the culture of communal harmony between the people living in the state to be disturbed by vested interests. In this hour I appeal to one and all to maintain peace and harmony in your respective areas. I urge you not to believe in rumours and unverified messages. While soliciting your cooperation in maintaining peace, the deployed state police and central forces have been directed to take strict action against individuals and groups indulged in violence. We shall all stay united to restore normalcy in Manipur at the earliest,” CM Singh said in a video message even as reports of violence continued to trickle in from different parts of the state.

Terming the series of incidents that have occurred in the past 24 hours as unfortunate, Chief Minister N Biren Singh said, “During the last around 24 hours some incidents of clashes, vandalism and arson have been reported in Imphal, Churachandpur, Bishnupur, Kangpokpi and Moreh. Precious lives have been lost, besides damage of property of residents which is very very unfortunate.”
The Chief Minister attributed the incidents of violence and arson to “misunderstandings” between 2 sections of the society. “These incidents are a result of prevailing misunderstandings between 2 sections of the society. The state government is taking all steps to control the law and order situation.”
The Chief Minister assured, “Long term grievances of communities will also be suitably addressed in due course of time, in consultation with the people and their representative organisations.”
It may be mentioned that the situation turned volatile in the state after the All Tribal Students Union Manipur took out a solidarity march yesterday against the High Court to consider granting ST status to the Meitei community.

Meanwhile, the Army staged a flag march in violence-hit areas in Manipur. Army and Assam Rifles conducted flag march and aerial reconnaissance in Khuga, Tampa, Khomaujanbba areas of Churachandpur, Mantripukhri, Lamphel, Koeirangi areas of Imphal and Sugnu in Kakching district.
Curfew has been imposed in eight districts of Manipur since last night after violence erupted in Imphal, Churachandpur and Kangpokpi. The Manipur government has also suspended mobile internet in the state.
The Army and paramilitary forces have been called in to contain the escalating violence.
Nearly 9,000 people have been rescued and given shelter in army camps and government office premises in various areas of the state following the violence.
A shoot-at-sight order has been issued by Manipur Governor.

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