Central Government deploys additional forces to Manipur amid escalating violence

NEW DELHI: As the situation in Manipur remains critical, the central government has decided to deploy an additional 2,000 paramilitary personnel to the region. Two CRPF battalions stationed in Jharkhand and Telangana's Warangal have been redeployed to Manipur. One unit will be positioned in Imphal, while the other will be stationed in Churachandpur. This reinforcement adds to the 16 battalions already in the state.

Advanced defense systems, including drone guns, have been introduced to counter drones used by attackers for bombings and other violent activities. The escalation of violence claimed another life yesterday, raising the death toll to 12 in just one week. In response, a curfew was imposed in Manipur's capital, Imphal and educational institutions have been ordered to remain closed today and tomorrow. The ongoing conflict, which has stretched for more than 15 months, has claimed over 200 lives so far.

Student injuries during protests

Yesterday, thousands of protesters gathered outside the Manipur Raj Bhavan, resulting in a confrontation with security forces that left more than 40 students injured. Demonstrators, who were stopped near the Congress office as they marched toward Raj Bhavan, are calling for the removal of the Director General of Police (DGP) and the security advisor. Clashes between protesters and police also erupted on Monday.

In response to growing concerns over the spread of misinformation and provocative content, authorities have imposed a five-day internet ban across the state. The blackout will remain in effect until 3 PM on the 15th of this month, aiming to curb the spread of images and false messages that could further inflame tensions.

Meitei group blames foreign influence

In a press conference held in Delhi, Meitei organizations alleged that foreign powers were behind the recent drone and missile attacks in the region. Meanwhile, the Kuki faction has renewed its call for the creation of a separate state, intensifying the divide between the two groups.