Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh on Thursday announced the start of combing operations in 41 hill areas and 38–39 valley areas in an effort to find those responsible for the recent incident at Khamenlok village that killed nine people, injured several others.
As part of these operations, six improvised explosive devices (IEDs) have been recovered, CM Biren said while speaking to the media at his secretariat in Imphal. He assured the public that strong action would be taken against the terrorists responsible for the brutal killings in Khamenlok area.
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He also emphasised the urgent need for the public to refrain from obstructing security convoys on the streets.
Such actions have caused significant hindrances and delays in the timely arrival of backup units, severely impacting the confrontation of militants who are targeting civilians in peripheral areas, Biren said.
Addressing the ongoing unrest, the chief minister clarified that it is not a conflict between communities but a conflict between the state government and illegal immigrants, as well as anti-social elements promoting violence and hatred.
In this regard, he called upon the public to focus on destabilising these elements and not to succumb to spreading rumours, which have contributed to triggering further violence and eroding trust within the Manipuri community.
In response to reports of certain individuals engaging in illicit buying and selling of abandoned land, the chief minister emphasised that the government will strictly enforce the ML and LR Act of 1960.
He assured the public that abandoned lands and houses of displaced people cannot be claimed by anyone, as security forces are actively guarding them.
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Regarding comments from CSOs based in Mizoram, Biren urged the Mizoram government to exercise control over them, stating that their involvement does not entitle them to decide the fate of Manipur.
The chief minister reaffirmed that the state government's stance is unwavering and that Manipur's integrity will never be compromised.
On the matter of demands for separate administration by 10 MLAs, including cabinet ministers, he stated that the government is approaching the issue with a reconciliatory mindset, seeking a mutual understanding, as it is a political matter.
He, however, emphatically declared that Manipur's integrity would not be compromised under any circumstances.
In other updates, the chief minister revealed plans to extend the curfew period from 5 am to 6 pm, allowing normal activities to resume gradually and reopening of schools from June 21, if possible.
The State Level Peace Committee headed by the governor has also begun consultations with its members to expedite the restoration of peace, he said, assuring the public that all necessary measures are also being taken by ministers and MLAs, who are engaging in talks with various stakeholders.
CM Biren lastly sought the support and cooperation of the public to achieve early restoration of peace in Manipur.
The press briefing was also attended by Rajya Sabha MP Leishemba Sanajaoba, ministers and MLAs.
