Manipur: Communal tension continues even after deployment of large security forces, several houses torched, property damaged

The situation in Manipur continues to remain volatile after communal tension erupted in various places of valley district on May 3 after clashes in Churachandpur district.

Despite state government’s imposition of curfew, deployment of large security forces, authorities were unable to control the law and order situation.

As per reports, some anti-social elements tried to attack security forces by pelting stones, however police resorted to tear gas and fired at blank range to disperse the mob. 

There is complete breakdown of law and order situation in Manipur a day after the ATSUM’s solidarity march opposing Meitei’s demand for inclusion in Scheduled Tribe (ST) list.

In the wake of the prevailing law and order situation, the Manipur government on May 3, imposed Section 144 CrPc in eight districts of the state, an official notification said.

The districts where Section 144 CrPc is imposed are Bishnupur, Pherzawl, Jiribam, West Imphal, Thoubal, Tengnoupal, Kakching, and Kangpokpi.

''It appears to the undersigned that there is a likelihood of causing a serious breach of peace, disturbances to public tranquillity, and grave danger to human lives and properties in the area which is described in the schedule given below on account of unlawful activities of some anti-social elements,'' the order by Laourembam Bikram, District Magistrate, Bishnupur read.

The order restricted the assembly of five or more persons as it can be turned into an unlawful activity in the area. 
Additionally, the carrying of sticks, stones, firearms, and/or weapons of any description or objects which can be used as offensive weapons should be prohibited as an immediate preventive measure.

Also read : Manipur: Section 144 imposed in eight districts of state due to prevailing law and order situation