Imphal: The Army today conducted flag marches in violence-hit areas of Manipur amid protests by tribal groups over a court order on Scheduled Tribe status. Curfew was imposed in eight districts of Manipur last night after violence erupted in Imphal, Churachandpur and Kangpokpi.
The Manipur government has suspended mobile internet services in the state for the next five days. The Army and Assam Rifles were called in to stop the escalating violence. A flag march was conducted today by the Army and Assam Rifles to keep the situation under control.
Around 4,000 people were given shelter in army camps and government office complexes in different areas of the state following the violence.
Boxer Mary Kom on Manipur violence said, “I am not feeling good about the situation in Manipur, the atmosphere in the state has been very bad since last night. The state and central government should intervene as soon as possible. All possible steps should be taken to handle the situation. I appeal to save my state from burning.”
Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Thursday spoke to Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh and enquired about the violence that erupted during the tribal agitation there. The Centre is closely monitoring the situation in Manipur and has sent Rapid Action Force (RAF) teams for deployment in the violence-hit areas of the northeastern state.
The RAF is an efficient force to control riot-like situations. Officials said the Home Minister spoke to the Manipur Chief Minister and briefed him about the ground situation and peace.