Imphal: Security forces are conducting extensive combing operations in Manipur’s Jiribam district to apprehend those involved in the recent killings, which included women and children, Chief Minister N. Biren Singh said on Tuesday evening.
Addressing the media, the Chief Minister informed that two companies of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) were deployed to Jiribam immediately after the violence, with an additional five companies sent later. The search and combing operations will continue until all culprits are arrested and prosecuted, he added.
Singh also highlighted the disappearance of a man identified as Laishram Kamal Babu, who worked inside Leimakhong Army Camp. A Zero FIR has been registered with Sekmai Police, and efforts are underway by State Forces, paramilitary personnel, and the Army to locate him.
He further stated that the National Investigation Agency (NIA) has re-registered cases related to the Jiribam violence, which led to multiple deaths, including women and children. The cases involve killings, abductions, attacks on CRPF posts and police stations, and the recovery of militants’ bodies and weapons near the attack sites. The NIA has started its investigation and is working to identify those responsible, Singh confirmed.
Acknowledging the complexity of the situation, the Chief Minister admitted the government’s inability to provide frequent updates, citing concerns over elements attempting to sabotage official announcements.
To restore peace, neutral security forces like the CRPF and BSF have been stationed in vulnerable areas, Singh said. He reiterated the resolutions adopted by NDA legislators on November 18, which include urging the Centre to repeal the Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA) from six police station limits where it was recently reimposed, intensifying operations to arrest those involved in the Jiribam violence, and designating the organizations responsible as terrorist groups.
Singh noted that many demands have been met by the Centre but appealed for an end to violent agitations, which disrupt daily life and impede peace efforts. He urged civil society organizations (CSOs) and the public, including COCOMI, to allow schools, colleges, offices, and economic activities to function without disturbances.
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