Manipur violence: Imphal valley peaceful but tense, irregular gunfire continues

The Imphal Valley in Manipur was calm but tense on Friday; however, irregular gunfights between militant groups and security forces were reported from the hill districts surrounding the valley.

As per a senior police officer, gunfire was reported between militant groups and security forces at Kangvai in the Churachandpur district, the western hill range of Phougakchao in the neighbouring Bishnupur district, and Dolaithabi and Pukhao in the Imphal East district.

It was not immediately clear whether any casualties had occurred on either side. The Army and the Assam Rifles have deployed more than 6,000 soldiers in the state, and additional troops have been transported there by road from Nagaland and by air using C-17 Globemaster and AN-32 transport aircraft of the IAF from Assam.

The Sikh regiment of the Army is currently conducting rescue operations in Langol in the Imphal West district, relocating more than 500 people to safe places at the Leimakhong army camp, officials said.

The situation has been brought under control thanks to coordinated efforts by all parties. “The Indian Air Force (IAF) undertook continuous sorties from two airfields in Assam employing C17 Globemaster and AN 32 aircraft.”

“Induction started on 4 May night, and new columns started dominating on 5 May early in the morning. Throughout the night, the evacuation of all communities’ civilians from impacted areas continued. “A flag march in Churachandpur and other sensitive areas is underway,” it added.

The Manipur government has issued “shoot at sight” orders to stop the ongoing violence. Chief Minister N Biren Singh has claimed that the violence took place due to “misunderstanding” in society and that his government is taking all necessary steps to stabilise the situation.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah has held video conference meetings with key officials of the Manipur and central governments to review the situation, in addition to talking with Singh and his counterparts in Nagaland (Neiphiu Rio), Mizoram (Zoramthanga), and Assam (Himanta Biswa Sarma).