Manipur unrest: Two new CRPF battalions deployed to tackle growing violence

MHA sends 2 new CRPF battalions to Manipur after drone attacks, internet shut in 5 districts

In response to rising violence and student protests in Manipur, the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has announced the deployment of two additional Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) battalions, totaling approximately 2,000 personnel. The decision, announced Tuesday night, aims to address the deteriorating situation in the northeastern state.

The new CRPF units, arriving from Telangana and Jharkhand, will be stationed in the tribal-dominated districts of Churachandpur and Kangpokpi. This deployment comes on the heels of significant unrest, including protests by thousands of Kuki-Zo community members in Kangpokpi over the recent withdrawal of Assam Rifles battalions from the region.

Currently, Manipur is already under the watch of more than 60,000 personnel from the Army, Assam Rifles, and Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs), including the CRPF and Border Security Force (BSF). The recent withdrawal of two Assam Rifles battalions for operational duties in Jammu and Kashmir and other parts of the northeast has heightened local tensions.

The investigation into recent drone-borne bombings is set to be transferred to central investigating agencies. Manipur Police have recovered bomb fragments and sent them to forensic labs to identify the chemicals used. In addition, the police have urged students to protest peacefully, warning against misinformation and false content on social media that exacerbates the situation.

Inspector General of Police (Operations), IK Muivah, has refuted claims made by a retired security official suggesting a division within the Manipur Police along ethnic lines. Muivah emphasized that the Manipur Police force is diverse, comprising members from various communities including Nagas, Meiteis, Manipuri Muslims, and others.

In light of the unrest, the Manipur government has suspended mobile internet services in five districts and closed educational institutions until September 12. Despite the curfew, over a thousand students protested in Imphal for the second consecutive day, leading to confrontations with security forces who used tear gas and fired warning shots to disperse the crowds.

Governor Lakshman Prasad Acharya met with student representatives on Tuesday evening and assured them that their demands—restoring peace, curbing militant activities, and protecting Manipur’s territorial integrity—would be addressed. The Governor acknowledged the importance of the students and pledged to take action in their best interest.

Authorities have reimposed curfews in Imphal East, Imphal West, and Thoubal districts to preempt further disturbances. Manipur BJP legislator Rajkumar Imo Singh, son-in-law of Chief Minister N Biren Singh, has criticized the current deployment of central forces, arguing that their presence has not effectively quelled the unrest and suggesting a reevaluation of the strategy.

For all the latest updates, download PGurus App.

The post Manipur unrest: Two new CRPF battalions deployed to tackle growing violence appeared first on PGurus.