The Army and the Assam Rifles were continuing to conduct flag marches in violence-hit Manipur on Thursday while additional soldiers were airlifted to the northeastern state, where the situation turned volatile after thousands turned up for the ‘Tribal Solidarity March’ on Wednesday to oppose the demand for inclusion of the Meitei community in the Scheduled Tribe (ST) category.
Meanwhile, in view of the prevailing situation, the Manipur government authorized all District Magistrates, Sub-Divisional Magistrates, and all Executive Magistrates to issue “Shoot at sight orders” in extreme cases.
“In view of the prevailing law and order situation, following the unwanted incidents that occurred after the Tribal Solidarity March, on May 3 and in order to maintain public order and tranquility in the state, the Governor of Manipur (Anusuiya Uikey) is pleased to authorize all District Magistrates, Sub-Divisional Magistrates, and all Executive Magistrates, Special Executive Magistrates detailed by the District Magistrates concerned to issue ‘Shoot at Sight’ orders in extreme cases whereby all forms of persuasion, warning, reasonable force, etc. had been exhausted under the provisions of law under CrPC, 1973 and the situation could not be controlled.”
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A defense spokesman said that Army and Assam Rifles personnel conducted flag marches and aerial reconnaissance in areas of Khuga, Tampa, and Khomaujanbba areas of Churachandpur district, Mantripukhri, Lamphel, and Koeirangi area of Imphal West District, and Sugnu in Kakching districts.
“Total 55 columns of Army and Assam Rifles have been deployed for restoration of law and order so far. Additional 14 columns were also kept on standby for deployment on short notice,” the Defence PRO told IANS.
He said that around 10,000 villagers of different communities were given shelter in Army and Assam Rifles camps in different districts.
In the wake of the violence in Manipur, Union Home Minister Amit Shah spoke to Chief Minister N. Biren Singh on Thursday during which they discussed the current situation in the state.
According to official sources, the Union Minister took stock of the law and order situation during the phone call.
In an appeal to the people, Biren Singh urged them to maintain peace and calm and cooperate with the state government.
“Wednesday’s incidents took place due to a misunderstanding between the communities. The government will settle the genuine demands and grievances after talking with all the communities and leaders,” Singh said in a video message.
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