Union Government Deploys Additional Forces in Manipur Amid Surge in Ethnic Violence
Imphal, Manipur: The Union government has dispatched an additional 20 paramilitary companies, comprising approximately 2,500 personnel, to Manipur in response to the escalating ethnic violence and growing threats against Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel. The reinforcements are aimed at addressing the mounting tensions and unrest that have gripped the state in recent weeks, particularly following a series of violent incidents.
Increased Deployment to Address Wave of Violence
According to officials from the Union home ministry, the decision to bolster security forces in the region was prompted by the “challenging situation” in Manipur. Fifteen of the newly deployed companies are from the CRPF, with the remaining five from the Border Security Force (BSF). These units will be stationed in key sensitive areas across the state, focusing on areas most affected by the wave-like nature of violence that has intensified in recent days.
The deployment comes as security forces work to contain widespread unrest between the Meitei and Kuki communities, which has resulted in violence, displacement, and loss of life. Officials emphasized that the additional forces will help strengthen security and restore stability to the volatile regions affected by the ongoing clashes.
Ongoing Clashes and Abductions Fueling Tensions
The surge in violence follows the abduction of a Meitei woman and her family, which has drawn widespread condemnation and further escalated the ethnic conflict. The victims, who were displaced by the ethnic violence, were taken captive on Monday, and their release has become a point of focus for local leaders. Manipur’s Rajya Sabha member, Sanajaoba Leishemba, has appealed to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah to intervene and secure their release, underscoring the urgent need for government action.
In addition to the abductions, reports of sexual violence and murder have further stoked tensions. A tribal woman from the Hmar community was allegedly raped and murdered near the Assam border last Thursday, with a member of the radical Meitei group Arambai Tenggol being accused of the crime. This incident has led to widespread anger and calls for justice from local tribal organizations.
Violent Confrontations and Militant Attacks
The situation took a deadly turn on Monday when armed militants launched an attack on a CRPF post and a police station where displaced Meitei individuals had sought refuge. The confrontation resulted in the deaths of at least 10 militants, although there is disagreement over their identity. The Hmar and Kuki communities claim the deceased were armed volunteers from their villages, while the police have refuted these claims, maintaining that the militants were part of a larger attack.
Gunfights between armed Meitei and Kuki militants have continued since last Thursday, with both sides using explosives and advanced weaponry. Security forces have recovered improvised rockets and other ammunition from the attack sites, indicating the increasingly sophisticated nature of the conflict. The ongoing violence has prompted calls for both sides to de-escalate, although efforts to broker peace have thus far been unsuccessful.
Heightened Tensions and Calls for CRPF Withdrawal
Amid the escalating violence, the Kuki Students Organization issued a statement urging local tribals to avoid cooperating with CRPF personnel and to prevent them from leaving their camps. Protests have erupted in hill districts such as Kangpokpi, demanding the withdrawal of the CRPF from the state. These protests reflect growing local dissatisfaction with the presence of security forces, which some groups believe have exacerbated the conflict.
Government’s Response and Security Measures
In response to the worsening situation, high-level security meetings have been convened to assess the law and order situation in Manipur. Senior officials have stressed the need for all forces to prioritize de-escalation and exercise restraint in their interactions with both Meitei and Kuki groups. However, security forces have been instructed to take appropriate action in self-defense if they come under attack. These measures aim to strike a balance between maintaining security and preventing further escalation.
As the Union government intensifies its efforts to address the violence in Manipur, the region remains on edge, with the potential for further clashes. The ongoing conflict has left many displaced, and the state’s future stability hinges on the success of the government’s response to the volatile situation.
