Manipur CM Calls for Action Following Civilian Killings Amid Statewide Strike
Chief Minister's Response to Violence
Manipur Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh during a high-level meet on Tuesday (Photo: AT)
Imphal, Oct 20: On Tuesday, Manipur's Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh instructed security forces to track down those responsible for the murder of three civilians in the Imphal East district. This incident has led to a 48-hour statewide general strike, significantly affecting daily life.
Singh convened meetings with National Democratic Alliance (NDA) legislators and senior security officials at the Secretariat to assess the situation following the attack on Monday and the recent unrest in Thoubal district.
During the NDA legislators' meeting, members collectively condemned the killings and demanded the swift arrest of the armed assailants, as stated by the Chief Minister.
In a separate security review session held in the Cabinet Hall, Singh, alongside Home Minister Govindas Konthoujam, evaluated the overall security landscape and discussed the violent incidents in Imphal East and Thoubal.
The Chief Minister urged officials to enhance security measures in at-risk areas and ensure a unified response to the recent violence.
In the wake of the killings, public outrage surged, prompting the Native People Committee Manipur (NPC) to declare a 48-hour statewide general strike starting at midnight.
This shutdown severely impacted daily activities on Tuesday, with traffic virtually ceasing in numerous locations.
Supporters of the strike took to the streets in areas such as Canchipur, Khurai, and Patsoi to enforce the shutdown.
The NPC announced that health services, religious practices, educational institutions, and essential services would be exempt from the strike.
It called on the public to ensure that emergency medical services and the supply of essential goods were not disrupted.
The committee has demanded accountability for the armed groups allegedly involved in the killings, the dismantling of unauthorized armed camps near the Khongbal Tangkhul foothills and Khamenlok, and a timely resolution regarding the Suspension of Operations (SoO) agreement.
Additionally, they have called for the resignation of Deputy Chief Minister Nemcha Kipgen, citing concerns over supposed political interference in security matters, and have demanded lawful action against KNF(P) chairman SS Thangboi Kipgen. These remain the committee's demands and allegations.
In response, joint teams from Manipur Police, the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), Assam Rifles, and the Border Security Force (BSF) have intensified their search for the unidentified gunmen. The operation includes the use of drones, sniffer dogs, and helicopter surveillance.
Earlier, Additional Director General of Police (Law and Order) Lhari Dorjee Lhatoom reported that a group of 14 Meitei villagers was attacked while collecting and transporting firewood near the Khongbal Tangkhul foothills under Sagolmang police station.
“Operations are ongoing in the area with joint teams of police, CRPF, Assam Rifles, and BSF, and we plan to intensify these operations as a priority,” he stated.
Lhatoom mentioned that Assam Rifles personnel assisted in evacuating the injured and recovering the deceased, adding that further operations are being organized to capture the attackers.
He urged the public to remain calm, avoid spreading unverified information, and refrain from taking the law into their own hands.