In order to take stock of the situation and resolve the ethnic crisis, Union Home Minister Amit Shah is likely to visit the violence-hit Manipur on Monday. The recent clashes between the Meiteis and tribals—Nagas and Kukis—has paved way for unrest in the state.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah would stay for three days and would work to end the ethnic crisis and deliver justice to all the people, said Union Minister of State for Home Nityanand Rai.
Shah on Thursday appealed to the people of Manipur to maintain peace and promised justice to all sections of the society.
"We will talk with people at different places and listen to their views and opinions," Rai said while addressing a press conference. The recent unrest has only impeded development, Rai added.
He also assured the people that the issues and problems of the their communities will be discussed and solved in a peaceful manner. Rai urged the people to have faith in the government as well.
"The Centre will ensure that justice is delivered to all those who suffered in the clashes in the state, but people must hold dialogue to ensure peace," Shah had said.
During the last six years, there was no blockade or bandh in Manipur and "people must ensure the return of such a situation again".
"Charcha ke saath hi shanti ho sakti hain (Peace can only be restored through dialogue)," he said.
Meanwhile, curfew has been relaxed in East and West Manipur for seven hours from 5 am to 12 noon on Friday. People can step out of their homes for purchase of essential items including food and medicines.
The fresh violence that broke out in the state left infrastructure damages. Two houses were torched by the miscreants. The curfew imposed in the area was tightened following the incident.
Reportedly, a delegation comprising representatives of various political parties from Manipur met with Shah and discussed the situation.
The 'Tribal Solidarity March' organised on May 3 to protest against the Meitei community's demand for Scheduled Tribe (ST) status led to a clash in Manipur on May 3.
Meiteis account for about 53 per cent of Manipur's population and live mostly in the Imphal Valley. Tribals -- Nagas and Kukis -- constitute another 40 per cent of the population and reside in the hill districts.
Over 70 lives were claimed so far in the clashes. Around 10,000 army and paramilitary personnel was deployed to restore normalcy in the northeastern state.
(With PTI inputs)
