IMPHAL: In response to rising security concerns, the Assam Rifles has deployed anti-drone systems around the fringes of the Imphal Valley in Manipur to deter potential "rogue drone" threats.
The CRPF, already stationed in Manipur, has also tested an anti-drone system, which has been provided to the forces deployed in the region. Plans are underway to equip the CRPF with additional anti-drone guns. Meanwhile, the Manipur Police is actively working to acquire these systems to counter drone attacks.
Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh, in a recent memorandum to Governor Lakshman Prasad Acharya, requested the central government to resist the demands for a separate administration raised by Kuki Zo groups. The chief minister also urged the revocation of the Suspension of Operations (SoO) agreement, according to an official.
Security measures in the state have been intensified following renewed violence on Saturday, which resulted in the deaths of six people.
In light of the situation, the Manipur government has announced that all schools and educational institutions will remain closed on Monday. Additionally, ongoing undergraduate and postgraduate exams at Manipur University have been postponed, with new dates to be announced later.
Kuki Students’ Union Strongly Denies Allegations by COCOMI
Recent statement, the Kuki Students’ Organisation (KSO) General Headquarters firmly rejected accusations made by the Coordinating Committee on Manipur Integrity (COCOMI). COCOMI had alleged that the Indian Armed Forces were protecting Kuki militants and claimed that the Meitei community was facing a proxy war orchestrated by the Indian government and military. KSO dismissed these claims as baseless and absurd.
The KSO also criticized COCOMI for portraying the Meitei population as representing the entire state, accusing them of spreading misinformation related to Valley-based Meitei insurgent groups, particularly CorCom.
Ongoing Ethnic Violence The ethnic conflict between the Kuki and Meitei communities has plagued Manipur since May 2023. Tensions escalated earlier this month with militants using drones, rockets, firearms, and grenades, further intensifying the state's ongoing crisis.
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