New Delhi: Home Minister Amit Shah has announced a judicial probe into the month-long ethnic violence in Manipur by a retired High Court Chief Justice. He has also announced a CBI investigation into six specific cases.
Amidst escalating violence in Manipur, which has tragically resulted in the loss of at least 80 lives, a significant reshuffle has taken place within the state’s police leadership. Rajiv Singh, an Indian Police Service (IPS) officer from the Tripura cadre, has been appointed as the new Director General of Police (DGP) for the northeastern state.
Following a four-day visit to violence-hit Manipur, Amit Shah said that a high-level peace committee headed by Governor Anusuiya Uikey would be formed and people from all sections and communities would be included in the committee.
Shah also made a plea to the people of Manipur, advising them to be on guard and ignore any false information or misleading news spreading in the area.
The union minister emphasized the need to keep the Suspension of Operations (SoO) agreement and gave the assurance that anyone found to be in violation will face harsh punishment.
“I urge the citizens of Manipur to not pay heed to fake news. Strict action will be taken against anyone violating the Suspension of Operations (SoO) agreement. Those carrying weapons must surrender to the police. “Combining operations will start tomorrow, and if weapons are found with anyone, strict actions will be taken,” said Shah.
Shah, while expressing condolences to the families of those killed in the violence, stated, “On behalf of the Government of India, on behalf of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and on my own behalf, I express my deepest condolences to all those who have died in the recent violence. It is natural for all of us to feel sad when a citizen of the country dies.”
Amit Shah, the Union Home Minister, announced that the families of the victims who have lost their lives to the violence would receive compensation. The total amount per family will be Rs 10 lakh, with the national government contributing Rs 5 lakh and the Manipur government adding another Rs 5 lakh.
Shah, while assuring investigations of the violence that occurred, said, “Several agencies are working in Manipur to investigate violent incidents. A high-level CBI investigator probed six incidents of violence that hint at a conspiracy. We will make sure that the investigation is fair.”
The Home Minister stated that online classes and examinations will go as scheduled.
“Education officials will reach the state, and we will have discussions to provide uninterrupted education facilities to the students. Online education and examinations will be held as per plan,” said the Union minister.
Earlier this month, a wave of clashes erupted in the hilly state, triggered by a solidarity march organised by tribal communities on May 3.
The march was organised by the tribals to express opposition to the Meiteis’ community request to become a Scheduled Tribe. Over 75 people were reported to have lost their lives as a result of the violence.
