In a high-level meeting on Monday in Imphal, Manipur Chief Minister N. Biren Singh addressed the prevailing security concerns in the state. The state’s ruling MLAs passed a resolution urging the Central Government to reconsider the imposition of the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA) in six police station areas of the valley. This comes a few hours after the Centre deployed an additional 50 paramilitary forces to Manipur in response to a new wave of violence and protests here.
The MLAs called for decisive action against Kuki militants responsible for the abduction and killings of six Meitei women and children from Jiribam on November 11, reports said. They demanded that the group be declared an “unlawful organisation” within seven days.
The resolution further stated if their demands were not implemented within the stipulated period, NDA legislators would consult with the state’s people to decide the future course of action. It also recommended legal action against those involved in vandalising the properties of legislators and political figures during protests, reports added.
In a social media post, the Chief Minister shared some crucial points from the meeting, expressing anguish over the recent killings in Jiribam. He assured, “Justice will be ensured and firm action will be taken against the perpetrators. Key decisions on AFSPA and strengthening law & order were also taken to ensure peace and stability in the state.”
In a high-profile review meeting in New Delhi on Monday, the Ministry of Home Affairs decided to dispatch an additional 50 companies of the Central Armed Police Forces, totaling over 5,000 personnel to Manipur to restore order in the state.
Amid the prevailing tensions in Manipur, the state government has announced an extension of the temporary suspension of internet and mobile data services in Imphal West, Imphal East, Bishnupur, Kakching, Kangpokpi, Thoubal, and Churachandpur districts. The suspension will remain in place for two days, except for lease lines and FTTH connections to government offices.
