The Manipur government has extended the suspension of mobile internet services for three more days in seven districts, citing concerns over law and order. The measure, initially imposed on 16 November, aimed to curb the spread of inflammatory content amid escalating violence.
In an order issued on Wednesday, the state government stated that mobile internet services would remain suspended in Imphal West, Imphal East, Kakching, Bishnupur, Thoubal, Churachandpur, and Kangpokpi, news agency PTI reported. However, broadband internet services, also suspended on 16 November, were conditionally restored on Tuesday to alleviate the difficulties faced by residents, healthcare facilities, educational institutions, and other essential offices.
Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh has expressed profound grief and anger over the killing of six people, including three women and three children, allegedly by suspected Kuki militants in Jiribam district. He vowed that his government would leave no stone unturned in bringing the culprits to justice.
In a video message shared on X (formerly Twitter) on Tuesday night, Singh termed the killings as "crimes against humanity" and condemned the act, stating, "Such barbaric acts have no place in any civilised society. Let me assure you that the hunt for these terrorists is currently underway, and they will be brought to justice very soon. We will not rest until they are held accountable for their inhuman actions."
The victims had been missing since 11 November from a camp for displaced persons in Jiribam, following a gunfight between militants and security forces that resulted in the deaths of 10 insurgents. Their bodies were later recovered from a river in the district.
Singh lauded the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) for their prompt action during the attack on the relief camp at Borobekra in Jiribam. He revealed that around 40 to 50 armed militants had launched an assault on the camp and a nearby police station with the intent to spread fear and destruction.
“Thanks to the timely and decisive response from CRPF personnel stationed there, the attack was repelled, and their swift action neutralised 10 terrorists on the spot, thereby saving hundreds of innocent lives living in relief camps,” Singh said. He extended his "heartfelt gratitude to CRPF and state forces for their remarkable courage and commitment to duty."
There is no place in any society for terrorists who kills innocent women and children. pic.twitter.com/B2VsmJQM5u
— N. Biren Singh (@NBirenSingh) November 19, 2024
Highlighting the support from central leaders, Singh stated that an additional 70 companies of central armed police forces (CAPF) were being deployed to the state to bolster security and restore peace. "We will continue to take necessary steps to ensure the safety of our people, irrespective of which community they belong to. Let us all condemn such barbaric violence in the strongest terms," Singh added.
The Chief Minister reiterated his commitment to combating terror and violence, promising a peaceful future for Manipur. "The bravery demonstrated by the CRPF is a reminder that we will stand firm against terror and violence. Together, we will overcome these dark times and work towards a more peaceful future," Singh asserted.
Curfew restrictions were eased in Imphal East, Imphal West, and Kakching districts on Tuesday from 5 am to 10 am to allow residents to purchase essentials, according to notifications from district administrations. Despite the relaxation, prohibitory orders on large gatherings, movement of individuals, and sit-ins remain in effect.
Chief Minister N Biren Singh accused the Congress of being responsible for the ongoing crisis in Manipur and highlighted the need for a “mass operation” against militants involved in the killing of six women and children. Peaceful rallies took place across the state on Tuesday, with protesters carrying empty coffins in Churachandpur district to demand justice for those killed in a gunfight in Jiribam. Civil society organisations also staged a procession in Imphal West to oppose the reimposition of the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA) in parts of the state.
