Lagatar24 Desk
Imphal: Manipur’s ongoing violence took a new turn as civil society groups, including Meitei organizations, issued a 24-hour ultimatum to Chief Minister N Biren Singh’s government, demanding decisive action against armed militant groups. The unrest escalated with attacks on properties belonging to government officials, ministers, and MLAs, further deepening the crisis.
Rahul Gandhi Calls for PM Modi’s Intervention
Congress leader Rahul Gandhi appealed to Prime Minister Narendra Modi to visit Manipur and actively work toward restoring peace in the state. Taking to X (formerly Twitter), Gandhi expressed concern about the deteriorating situation:
“The recent string of violent clashes and continuing bloodshed in Manipur is deeply disturbing. I urge the PM to visit Manipur and work toward restoring peace and healing in the region.”
Other Congress leaders, including Rajya Sabha MP Rajiv Shukla, echoed Gandhi’s sentiments, urging the government to involve all stakeholders to bring lasting peace to the state.
Protests Target Government Properties
The violence intensified after six bodies, believed to be missing Meitei individuals, were discovered in a river in Jiribam. Protesters attacked the homes of three state ministers and six MLAs, including the Sagolband residence of BJP legislator RK Imo, son-in-law of the Chief Minister.
Protesters ransacked and set fire to several properties, prompting security forces to deploy tear gas to disperse the crowds in various parts of Imphal.
Discovery of Bodies Fuels Tensions
The discovery of six bodies, including women and children, allegedly abducted by Kuki militants, further fueled tensions. The victims’ bodies were recovered from the River Jiri and sent to Silchar Medical College for post-mortem examinations.
The slain individuals were reportedly killed near a site where security forces had earlier shot 10 Hmar men, whom the authorities described as militants. However, the Kuki-Zo community claims they were village volunteers.
Government Imposes Curfews and Internet Restrictions
In response to the escalating violence, the Manipur government imposed curfews in Imphal East, Imphal West, and Bishnupur districts. Internet and mobile data services were suspended across several districts, including Kakching and Churachandpur, to curb the spread of hate speech and inflammatory content on social media.
The Role of Armed Militant Groups
The crisis highlights the role of armed militant groups in perpetuating violence, with civil society groups urging the government to take immediate action. The 24-hour ultimatum issued by Meitei groups reflects the growing frustration and urgency to restore normalcy in the state.
