New Delhi: Union Home Minister Amit Shah emphasized on Monday that the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) will initiate discussions with both the Meitei and Kuki communities promptly to address the ethnic tensions prevailing in Manipur.
During a comprehensive review of the security situation in Manipur, Shah directed stringent enforcement of the law against those responsible for violence in the northeastern state.
The home minister emphasized the potential augmentation of central forces deployment, strategically positioning them to restore peace and stability, according to an official statement.
Shah further instructed to preempt any recurrence of violence in Manipur, which has been grappling with ethnic strife for over a year.
“The MHA will engage with both the Meitei and Kuki groups to foster reconciliation and unity,” Shah affirmed in the statement.
He also directed the Chief Secretary of Manipur to ensure adequate provision of health, education, and rehabilitation facilities for displaced individuals.
Underlining the government’s commitment, Shah reiterated that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Centre is resolutely dedicated to safeguarding the welfare and security of all citizens in the northeastern state.
Additionally, Shah conducted a detailed assessment of relief camps, particularly ensuring sufficient availability of essential supplies such as food, water, medicines, and other necessities.
He stressed the imperative of a cohesive approach to resolve the ongoing ethnic conflicts, affirming continued support from the Centre to bolster the security apparatus in Manipur, as per the statement.
Ethnic tensions erupted in Manipur on May 3, 2023, following a tribal solidarity march in the hill districts protesting against the Meitei community’s demand for Scheduled Tribe status. Since then, the violence has resulted in casualties including over 220 individuals from both the Kuki and Meitei communities, as well as security personnel.
