In a tragic escalation of violence, a man was allegedly beheaded by armed assailants in the northeastern state of Manipur on June 6. The incident has intensified the already tense situation in the region.
The victim, identified as 59-year-old Soibam Saratkumar Singh, was reportedly attacked while inspecting his farm. Preliminary reports indicate that Singh was ambushed by armed miscreants.
In retaliation, enraged locals set an abandoned building on fire and staged a protest outside the Jiribam police station. Protesters demanded the return of their licensed firearms, which had been confiscated during the recent elections.
Amid growing concerns over potential unrest, the District Magistrate has imposed prohibitory orders under Section 144 of the Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC) 1973. Krishna Kumar, IAS, District Magistrate of Jiribam, issued these orders in response to illegal activities by anti-social elements that threaten public peace and safety.
The prohibitory orders include the following measures:
Ban on Assemblies: Gatherings of five or more people are prohibited if they are likely to become unlawful. This measure aims to prevent assemblies that could escalate into riots or violent confrontations.
Ban on Weapons: The carrying of firearms, swords, sticks, stones, or any other lethal weapons and sharp objects that could be used offensively is strictly prohibited. This is to reduce potential threats to public safety.
Movement Restrictions: The movement of individuals outside their residences within the jurisdiction of Jiribam District is restricted. However, this order does not apply to government agencies, officials, and security forces involved in law enforcement and essential services.
Exceptions are granted for emergencies and for individuals seeking to conduct processions for marriages, funerals, or other events within the designated area. Applications for such processions must be submitted to the District Magistrate or the Superintendent of Police, Jiribam District, for approval. Processions cannot proceed without written authorization from the authorities.
Due to the urgent nature of the situation, this order has been issued ex-parte, meaning it is directed to the public without prior notice. The order is effective immediately and aims to safeguard public peace and security in the district.
Jiribam, known for its diverse ethnic composition, including Meiteis, Muslims, Nagas, Kukis, and non-Manipuris, has thus far remained insulated from the ethnic conflicts that have afflicted Manipur since May of the previous year.
