Daijiworld Media Network - Imphal
New Delhi/Imphal, Mar 1: Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Saturday chaired a high-level security review meeting to assess the ongoing situation in Manipur, reaffirming the central government's commitment to restoring lasting peace in the conflict-ridden state. He assured that under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, all necessary measures would be taken to bring stability and normalcy.
A senior official in Imphal confirmed that Shah engaged with key officials from the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) and intelligence agencies to review the security landscape in Manipur. The state has been under President’s Rule since February 13, following the resignation of Chief Minister N. Biren Singh.
During the meeting, Shah issued directives to ensure unrestricted movement of people on all roads in Manipur starting March 8. He also instructed strict action against any individual or group attempting to obstruct free passage. Additionally, he emphasized the urgency of completing border fencing along designated entry points on Manipur’s international border with Myanmar to enhance security.
The Home Minister underscored the need for an aggressive crackdown on drug networks operating in the state, calling for a complete dismantling of the supply chain to make Manipur drug-free.
The security review meeting was attended by Manipur Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla, top state government officials, and senior representatives from the Union Home Ministry, the Army, the Border Security Force (BSF), the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), and the Assam Rifles. This was the first high-level review conducted after the imposition of President’s Rule in Manipur, a state that has been grappling with ethnic violence between the Meitei and Kuki-Zo communities since May 2023.
The prolonged conflict has resulted in over 250 fatalities, more than 1,500 injuries, and the displacement of approximately 70,000 people. Following the imposition of President’s Rule, the state assembly has been placed under suspended animation.
The meeting followed an ultimatum issued by the Governor on February 20, urging individuals in possession of illegal or looted firearms to surrender them. The Governor extended the deadline by one week, until March 6, warning that legal action would be taken against those who failed to comply.
As of February 28, security forces had recovered over 645 illegal and looted weapons, including sophisticated firearms and large quantities of ammunition, following appeals from authorities. In his renewed appeal, Governor Bhalla acknowledged the positive response to the surrender request and announced an extension until 4 p.m. on March 6. He clarified that no punitive action would be taken against those who voluntarily surrender weapons within the deadline, but anyone found in possession of illegal arms afterward would face legal consequences.
Since assuming office as Manipur’s Governor on January 3, Bhalla has engaged with various community representatives and officials to explore ways to restore peace. He has conducted multiple meetings with security agencies and administration officials, issuing necessary directives to maintain law and order.
Bhalla, a former Union Home Secretary, worked closely with Amit Shah for five years until August 2024. His appointment as Manipur’s Governor was reportedly a strategic move by the Home Ministry to bring stability to the troubled state.
Manipur has remained tense since ethnic violence erupted in May 2023, following protests against the Meitei community’s demand for Scheduled Tribe (ST) status. Despite ongoing efforts by the central government to mediate between the warring communities, a lasting resolution remains elusive. However, the latest directives signal a renewed push to restore peace and strengthen security in the region.