New Delhi, March 1 – Union Home Minister Amit Shah has directed security forces to ensure unrestricted movement of people on all routes in Manipur starting March 8, while also calling for stringent action against those obstructing roads.
The directive was issued during a high-level meeting chaired by Shah to comprehensively review the security situation in Manipur, which has been marred by ethnic violence since May 2023. The order holds particular significance as travel between areas inhabited by the Meitei community in the Imphal valley and the Kuki-dominated hill regions has been restricted since the violence erupted.
Restoring Confidence and Normalcy
This move comes just days after Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla ordered individuals in possession of illegal or looted firearms to surrender them at security posts. In the past week, over 300 weapons have reportedly been surrendered, including 246 firearms from the Meitei radical group Arambai Tenggol.During the security review, Shah reaffirmed the central government’s commitment to restoring long-term peace in Manipur and assured that all necessary assistance would be provided. He also emphasized that strict measures would be taken against those attempting to block roads and restrict movement.
Key Security Measures and Border Fencing
Shah directed authorities to expedite the completion of fencing along designated entry points on Manipur’s international border to strengthen security. Additionally, he reiterated the need for a crackdown on the drug trade in the region, instructing security forces to dismantle the entire network involved.The meeting was attended by Governor Bhalla, Union Home Secretary Govind Mohan, Intelligence Bureau Director Tapan Deka, Deputy Chief of Army Staff, and the Commander of the Army’s Eastern Command, among other senior officials.
Impact of President’s Rule and Arms Surrender Deadline Extension
This was the first high-level security review since President’s Rule was imposed in Manipur on February 13, following the resignation of Chief Minister N Biren Singh. The state assembly, which has a tenure until 2027, has been placed under suspended animation.Governor Bhalla had earlier set a February 20 deadline for surrendering illegal arms, leading to a significant number of surrendered weapons. However, in response to requests from both valley and hill residents, the deadline has now been extended until March 6, 4 PM.
Since assuming office on January 3, Bhalla has been engaging with various community groups to gather feedback on restoring normalcy. He has also conducted multiple meetings with security officials to assess the law-and-order situation in the state.
Background of the Manipur Conflict
The ongoing violence in Manipur traces back to May 2023, when a ‘Tribal Solidarity March’ was organized in the hill districts to protest against the Meitei community’s demand for Scheduled Tribe (ST) status. The ethnic clashes have since claimed over 250 lives and resulted in the widespread looting of weapons from police stations.With the latest directive, the government aims to restore public confidence and ensure unrestricted movement across Manipur, marking a crucial step toward peace and stability in the violence-hit state.
