Manipur Government Urged to Enhance Security Amid Rising Violence
Urgent Call for Increased Security in Kamjong District
Approximately 10 homes have been set ablaze during the recent clashes since Friday night (Photo: AT)
IMPHAL, Oct 12: Authorities in Manipur are being urged to send three companies of state forces to bolster security along the border in Kamjong district, following alarming reports of violence that have resulted in multiple fatalities and the destruction of numerous homes.
Leishiyo Keishing, the MLA representing Phungyar from Kamjong district, has addressed a letter to State Home Minister Govindas Konthoujamin, emphasizing the need for enhanced security measures. He noted that after his previous request to the Chief Minister for the deployment of three companies, one company from the India Reserve Battalion was dispatched from the police headquarters. However, violence erupted at Kamjong-Chassad on Friday evening before the personnel could be deployed.
According to the MLA, armed militants opened fire as security forces attempted to secure the Chassad cemetery following reports of 'suspicious activity.'
It has been reported that a residence belonging to a Tangkhul individual was set on fire. The violence escalated again on October 10, with 23 homes reportedly destroyed, including 12 belonging to the Tangkhul community and 11 to the Kukis.
During the exchange of gunfire at Chassad, two individuals, Domkhonei Touthang and Michael Haokip, lost their lives, as stated in the letter.
Additionally, armed militants from across the border attacked Ningchou village, situated about 15 km from the Kamjong district headquarters, resulting in the deaths of two people – Ngachanso Ningshen and Leishisan Leishadang.
Keishing highlighted that such violent incidents have become increasingly common in the border region and urged the Home Minister to ensure adequate security measures to safeguard the lives and properties of local residents.
Manipur's border with Myanmar spans five districts – Churachandpur, Chandel, Kamjong, Tengnoupal, and Ukhrul – covering a total of 398 km, with Kamjong district alone sharing 109 km of this border.