New Delhi: Authorities in Manipur’s Imphal West District reimposed total curfew from 4.30am on Saturday, citing a deteriorating law and order situation. The decision, announced by district magistrate Th. Kirankumar, reverses an earlier relaxation order that allowed movement from 5am to 8pm on 16 November.
Essential service workers, including those in healthcare, utilities, media, and court-related activities, are exempt from the curfew. Passengers traveling to and from the airport, as well as contractors with valid permits, are also allowed to move freely. The development comes as Manipur continues to grapple with ethnic violence and insurgent attacks.
Tensions flared at Silchar Medical College Hospital
Meanwhile, tensions flared at Silchar Medical College Hospital on Saturday when family members of 10 suspected militants, killed in a gunfight with security forces in Jiribam district, clashed with police demanding custody of the bodies. Authorities explained that the remains would first be handed over to Manipur Police, urging families to coordinate with them. However, the protest turned violent, with stones hurled at police, resulting in injuries to several people, including four journalists, according to a report by news agency PTI.
Police resorted to baton charges to disperse the crowd. The situation was brought under control after family members agreed to receive the bodies from Manipur authorities. Plans are now underway to airlift the bodies to Churachandpur for handover.
MHA instruct forces to take stringent measures to restore peace
The Union Home Ministry has instructed security forces in Manipur to take stringent measures to restore peace, following a series of violent incidents. The Centre has already reimposed the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA) in six police station areas, including Jiribam, citing the fragile security situation. AFSPA grants sweeping powers to armed forces in disturbed areas to maintain public order.
Over 200 people have been killed, and thousands displaced in ethnic violence between Meiteis and Kuki-Zo groups since May last year. The MHA has urged citizens to maintain peace and avoid spreading rumours.
