Shruti Suman
In response to recent violence, the Manipur government has reinstated curfew under Section 144 in the Thoubal and Imphal West districts. The decision follows a violent clash between unidentified armed individuals and locals in the Lilong area of Thoubal district on Monday evening, resulting in four reported casualties. The bodies are yet to be recovered. Following the outbreak of violence, restrictions were reinstated in Thoubal and Imphal West districts.
An official order from the District Magistrate of Imphal West’s office cites the deteriorating law-and-order situation in the district as the reason for reimposing the curfew. The order emphasizes the need to prevent untoward incidents, loss of life and property, and serves as a precautionary measure.
Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh, in a video message, urged residents of Lilong village to refrain from causing further violence and maintain peace. He emphasized that stringent action would be taken against the culprits.
Reports indicate that three individuals lost their lives in Lilong during an attack by unknown armed individuals around 8 PM. Local authorities are actively investigating the incident, urging residents to adhere to the curfew for their safety.
The curfew exempts individuals involved in essential services such as health, public health engineering department (PHED), electricity distribution companies, municipalities, media, and court operations.
Additionally, curfew was reimposed in Moreh, Tengnoupal district, after intermittent gunfights between armed individuals and state police commandos since Saturday afternoon. The violence, stemming from a rally by the All Tribal Students Union of Manipur (ATSUM) on May 3, involved the Kuki and Meitei communities. To restore peace amid ongoing violence and rioting, the central government deployed paramilitary forces.
