News Reporter
New Delhi: Union Home Minister Amit Shah held a high-level meeting in Delhi to review the security situation in Manipur following fresh violence in the state. The review follows the imposition of a curfew in Imphal West and East districts and an internet shutdown across seven districts to curb escalating unrest. Shah is set to hold another detailed meeting with officials tomorrow at 12 PM to discuss further action.
Fresh Violence Sparks Tensions
The unrest was triggered by the discovery of six bodies in Jiribam, identified as three women and three children who were reportedly abducted by Kuki militants from a relief camp. This incident led to violent protests in the Valley districts, with mobs targeting and vandalizing the homes of several MLAs.
Reports indicate the victims went missing after a clash between militants and security forces in Jiribam earlier this week. Meitei organizations accused the militants of kidnapping the victims during the skirmish.
Attack on Police Station and Retaliation
On November 11, militants launched an attack on a police station in Borobekra, which was successfully repelled by security forces, resulting in the deaths of 11 militants. During their retreat, the militants allegedly abducted the victims. Their bodies were discovered after an extensive search operation.
Political Fallout: NPP Withdraws Support
Adding to the tensions, the National People's Party (NPP), led by Conrad Sangma, has withdrawn its support from the BJP-led state government, citing its failure to manage ethnic violence and restore peace. In an official letter to BJP national president JP Nadda, the NPP criticized Chief Minister N Biren Singh's administration for its inability to address the crisis.
Despite the withdrawal of seven NPP MLAs, the BJP-led government in Manipur remains stable with a majority of 37 MLAs in the 60-member assembly. The administration is further supported by the Naga People's Front (5 MLAs), one JD(U) MLA, and three Independents.
Amit Shah’s Intervention
As Manipur grapples with both security and political challenges, Shah's review underscores the central government’s commitment to restoring order in the troubled state. The outcomes of tomorrow’s meeting are highly anticipated, with both security measures and political realignments likely to shape the path forward.
Further updates will follow as the situation develops.