The fresh violence that erupted in Manipur on Monday has again disrupted the peace that was restored briefly after ethnic clashes broke out on May 3. Three people accused, including a former MLA, was arrested in the connection with the violence in Imphal East district.
Business establishments remained closed on Tuesday morning and people were asked by security personnel to remain indoors in New Chekon area of Imphal East district, where houses were torched by the mob. However, no causality was reported as the empty houses set on fire was used for providing rented accommodation to people.
According to police, locals, armed with licensed guns constructed "bunkers" in few places including Pukhao and Leitanpokpi in Imphal East district to guard themselves from any possible attacks. Also, sit-in demonstrations, mostly by the womenfolk, were reported in the valley districts.
Chief Minister N. Biren Singh on Monday said that those behind the violence was arrested and urged the people to have faith in the government.
"Stop torching houses of innocent people. We will initiate legal action against those involved in illegal activities," said CM.
Rajya Sabha MP, Kapil Sibal said in his tweet that the consequences of communal virus spread are unimaginable.
“Manipur Burning again. Earlier clashes led to : 70 dead, 200 injured. “Coronavirus” only affects the human body. “Communal virus” affects the body politic. If it spreads the consequences are unimaginable. Its political dividends are temporary. Its scars are permanent!" tweeted Kapil Sibal.
Army deployed in the area used force and fired teargas shells to disperse the mob. Meanwhile locals protested by burning tires.
Curfew in Imphal East district was tightened following the incident. Curfew relaxation period has been cut by two hours and the restriction is now from 5 am to 2 pm.
Around 10,000 Army and Assam Rifles jawans are currently deployed in the state. CM said that he has sought the Centre's help in deploying more forces to manage the situation. Aerial surveillance is also conducted.
On May 3, clashes broke out after a Tribal Solidarity March was organised in the hill districts to protest against the Meitei community's demand for Scheduled Tribe (ST) status.
The violence in Manipur was preceded by tension over the eviction of Kuki villagers from reserve forest land, which had led to a series of smaller agitations.
Meiteis account for about 53 per cent of Manipur's population and live mostly in the Imphal Valley. While, the tribals -- Nagas and Kukis -- constitute another 40 per cent of the population and reside in the hill districts.
The ethnic clashes have so far claimed over 70 lives. Over 7,500 have fled from the violence-hit area to Mizoram.
(With PTI inputs)
