In an unusual turn of events since the outbreak of violence on May 3 last year, the State police has reached out to Assam Rifles for support across multiple districts, including Imphal West, Thoubal, Bishnupur, Churachandpur, Kangpokpi, and Tengnoupal. Citing a palpable breach of law and order, District Magistrates have greenlit the deployment of several columns of Assam Rifles until the conclusion of the State Assembly Session on March 5.
Expressing genuine concern for the safety of citizens’ lives and property, the orders underscore the serious security threats perceived in these districts. To address these challenges, Assam Rifles troops are directed to work closely with local district police, aiming to foster cooperation and ensure the peace is upheld during this critical period.
This development unfolds against the backdrop of escalating calls for the abrogation of the Suspension of Operation (SoO) pact, a sentiment gaining traction within the ongoing State Assembly session initiated on February 28. The urgency of the police’s request is accentuated by the recent incident on February 27, where armed individuals abducted and assaulted Additional Superintendent of Police Imphal West, Moirangthem Amit. While the Additional SP was successfully ‘rescued’ on the same day, the event led to police commandos from multiple districts laying down their arms.
However, as the State attempts to restore order through the deployment of Assam Rifles, the move is not without its share of controversy. Valley residents have raised concerns, accusing the Central troops of aligning with Kuki militants in the ongoing conflict. This controversy sparks worries that the deployment may encounter resistance from the people in the valley.
In response to the heightened tensions, widespread protests erupted in the valley just a day ago, echoing the demand for the removal of Assam Rifles from Manipur and a simultaneous call for an end to the Suspension of Operation (SoO) pact with Kuki militant organizations.
Meanwhile, in Imphal West, the human touch to this development is reflected in the detailed deployment plan, specifying that two columns of Assam Rifles troops will be stationed in key areas. These range from Khongnang Ani Karak to Lilashing Khong-nangkhong up to North AOC, and from Krishna Premi Oil Pump to Secretariat up to Singjamei Chinga Crossing. Additionally, the assignment of 20 district administrative officers as Executive Magistrates showcases a concerted effort to ensure the maintenance of law and order with a human touch throughout the district. Similar people-centric deployments are also slated for Thoubal, Bishnupur, Kangpokpi, Churachandpur, and Tengnoupal districts throughout the State Assembly session.
