Curfew imposed in Jiribam after 11 militants killed
ManipurIn the aftermath of a violent encounter between militants and Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel, the district of Jiribam in Manipur has been placed under curfew. At least 11 suspected militants were killed during the clash, sparking widespread protests in the northeastern state.
On Tuesday, ethnic organizations and local groups in Manipur’s hill districts organized a complete shutdown to voice their opposition to the killings. The shutdown, which began at 5 a.m., saw businesses, schools, and other public institutions closed. Roads were deserted, with very few vehicles seen moving, as locals followed the shutdown order to express solidarity with the deceased.
The Kuki-Zo Council, a prominent ethnic organization, has claimed that the victims were “village volunteers,” rather than militants. In a statement, the council expressed outrage over the deaths, calling the incident a “brutal shooting” and demanding a thorough and impartial investigation. The group has also called for the identification and punishment of those responsible for the killings.
In response to the unrest, the district administration in Jiribam imposed a curfew on Monday. The order prohibits the carrying of firearms, swords, sticks, stones, or any other items that could be used as offensive weapons. However, government agencies, security personnel, and those involved in essential services are exempt from the curfew. People wishing to attend emergencies, weddings, funerals, or other important events are required to obtain written permission from the authorities.
The curfew was imposed after the district magistrate cited concerns over potential disturbances to public peace, following reports of unlawful activities by anti-social elements that could exacerbate the situation.
The tragic encounter occurred when CRPF personnel clashed with militants in the region. While the exact circumstances of the incident remain unclear, the Kuki-Zo Council maintains that the victims were part of a civilian militia, often referred to as “village volunteers,” who were not actively engaged in combat.
The violence has intensified the ongoing tensions in Manipur, which has been grappling with ethnic and political conflicts. The state, which has a complex socio-political landscape, has seen increasing friction between different ethnic groups, including the Meitei and Kuki communities.
As the protests continue and the investigation into the encounter unfolds, both local authorities and security forces are on high alert, trying to prevent further escalation in the region. The curfew remains in place, with additional security measures being implemented to maintain law and order.
This latest flare-up in Manipur highlights the fragile security situation in the region and underscores the deepening divisions within the state. It also brings to the forefront the need for a swift resolution to the ongoing ethnic tensions in Manipur to avoid further loss of life and unrest.
