Manipur CM Holds Security Meeting as Violence Escalates in Hill Districts

Manipur Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh on Thursday reviewed the state’s security and law and order situation amid a recent escalation in violence. A security coordination meeting was held at the Cabinet Hall of the Chief Minister’s Secretariat in Imphal, attended by State Home Minister Govindas and senior officials of the state police and Central security agencies deployed in the state. Following the meeting, Khemchand said stringent measures to maintain law and order were discussed, along with the identification of new vulnerable areas and the possible deployment of additional security personnel in the interest of the people. The review comes after a series of violent incidents, including fatalities and arson in remote hill areas. At least six people, including four women, have reportedly died in less than a week amid clashes in Naga-dominated areas of Tamenglong and Noney, while several houses were set ablaze in Noney, Tamenglong and Kangpokpi districts. Authorities are also dealing with militant-related activities in the valley, including recent bomb blasts targeting houses, as well as efforts to recover illegal arms and ammunition and curb extortion. Meanwhile, the government expects infrastructure development work to gain momentum over the next six months as the working season approaches, with the National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL) and contractors preparing to intensify construction activities.