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The Manipur government relaxed curfew restrictions in violence-hit Churachandpur district, where violence was first reported on May 3, for three hours (from 7 am to 10 am) to allow people to buy essential items such as food and medicines. The curfew was imposed under Section 144 of the CrPC.
The situation continues to remain tense in the northeastern state after clashes broke out on May 3 in Churachandpur district between tribals and members of the majority Meitei community during a tribal solidarity march that was organised to protest against the Meitei community’s demand for Scheduled Tribe (ST) status. Protesting mobs set ablaze vehicles, houses, schools, churches and commercial properties. The violence has already claimed 54 lives so far.
Meiteis are about 53% of the entire population of Manipur but occupy about 10% of the state’s land area. The state is home to 35 tribes, mostly Naga or Kuki, who reside in the hill districts.
A total of 23,000 civilians have been rescued till now and were moved to operating bases/military garrisons with the help of the Indian Army and Assam Rifles. The Indian Army has significantly enhanced surveillance efforts through aerial surveillance, movement of UAVs and redeployment of Army Helicopters within the Imphal Valley. Stay tuned with indiatoday.in for the latest updates.
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