Amit Shah Reviews Security Measures Amid Manipur's Ongoing Tensions

Union Home Minister Amit Shah held a significant security review meeting with Manipur's Chief Minister Y Khemchand Singh in New Delhi, addressing the state's ongoing law and order challenges. The meeting aimed to expedite the peace process and enhance community trust nearly two years after ethnic violence erupted. Shah approved the establishment of a Mahila India Reserve Battalion to bolster security and promote women's participation in policing. Despite ongoing security operations, tensions persist, highlighting the need for effective reconciliation efforts and the restoration of free movement along key highways. Observers warn that without tangible progress, claims of normalcy may remain limited.

By Narendra Chaudhary Apr 1, 2026, 17:53 IST

High-Level Security Meeting in New Delhi

A file image of Manipur CM Khemchand Singh (2nd from left) with Amit Shah in New Delhi. (Photo:Khemchand/Meta)

Imphal, Mar 30: In light of the ongoing instability in Manipur, Union Home Minister Amit Shah convened a crucial security review meeting with Chief Minister Y Khemchand Singh on Wednesday in New Delhi.

This meeting took place at the Parliament House complex around 11:30 AM and aimed at accelerating the peace process and fostering trust among the communities affected by conflict.

Sources revealed that Shah urged the state government to hasten reconciliation initiatives and strive to rebuild relationships among communities, a challenging task nearly two years after ethnic violence erupted in May 2023.

In a significant development, the Home Minister granted preliminary approval for the establishment of a Mahila India Reserve Battalion (IRB) in Manipur.

The state government has been instructed to present a formal proposal, which is anticipated to enhance the security framework and promote women's involvement in law enforcement.

Chief Minister Singh traveled to the national capital on Tuesday evening, emphasizing the urgency of the situation as sporadic tensions persist despite ongoing security measures.

Sources indicated that ongoing law and order issues remain a significant concern for the state administration. Challenges such as the delay in cabinet expansion and the slow return to normalcy have intensified pressure on the government.

Demands from civil society groups in the valley for the restoration of free movement along essential highways to Churachandpur and Moreh remain unresolved, underscoring the incomplete return to normalcy.

Additionally, the situation in Ukhrul district has surfaced as another challenge, raising concerns about stability in the hilly regions.

This review meeting is crucial as Manipur seeks to balance security enforcement with reconciliation efforts. The Centre appears to be advocating a dual strategy, enhancing ground-level security while expediting the peace process.

Observers caution that unless significant progress is made in ensuring free movement and addressing instability at the district level, claims of returning to normalcy may remain largely unfulfilled.