Imphal, Apr 15 (NNN): Following a tense situation in Bishnupur district since Tuesday, Manipur Home minister Govindas Konthoujam has appealed to the public to refrain from misinformation during a press conference held on Wednesday at the Minister’s Block, New Secretariat at Mantripukhri, Imphal West district.
Addressing the media personnel, Govindas Konthoujam informed that there has been a tense situation in the Bishnupur district since Tuesday due to an unfortunate incident which has further escalated in the district.
Govindas stated that based on a specific source, a joint team of CISF, Assam Rifles, and Manipur state forces apprehended a drug peddler, Sabhir Ahmad, from Tulihal Airport, Imphal at around 10.30 am on Tuesday. During interrogation, he revealed the presence of more drugs and weapons at Kwakta, Bishnupur district. Accordingly, Assam Rifles personnel in plain clothes escorted him to the location. However, on the way, an unfortunate incident occurred when local women, who were frisking vehicles, stopped the team, leading to a miscommunication, claiming that a particular tribe was inside the vehicle which created confusion and suspicion among the public. Due to this misunderstanding, tensions escalated quickly, and the situation turned violent. People started attacking, and in the chaos, some individuals were injured. The vehicle was set on fire, and more unrest spread in the area, he added.
The Home minister further mentioned that security forces, including Assam Rifles and commandos, arrived and carried out rescue operations. Some people were safely evacuated. Local volunteers and groups also helped in rescuing and controlling the situation. Manipur state security forces, along with central forces and the army, have been deployed and combing operations are ongoing to control the situation and prevent further unrest. The incident reportedly involved armed individuals and has raised serious concerns about safety and law and order. Authorities are working to identify and take action against those responsible within the shortest possible time, Govindas further informed.
Govindas appealed for calm and requested everyone not to spread panic or misinformation. The authorities concerned, including the MLAs of Moirang and Kumbi constituencies are already informed and necessary steps are being taken. A meeting with the Chief Minister is also being planned to address the situation, he added.
