Though the Center has deployed additional security forces, it seemed the best option for these people to leave Manipur as they feel the situation could worsen. photo/news18
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has asked the local administration to respond to the situation and take positive action
At the time of filing this report, more than a thousand people had crossed the Jiri river that divides Manipur and south Assam to visit their relatives or take shelter in churches and schools in Jirighat area of Cachar district. Almost all of them have left their villages and started walking to reach Assam. Though the Center has deployed additional security forces, it seemed the best option for these people to leave Manipur as the situation could worsen.
“Most people have taken shelter with their relatives on this side, while others are in churches and schools. There is no problem here and we are monitoring the situation round the clock. Our Chief Minister has directed to ensure their safety and shelter Assam Rifles and CRPF jawans have been deployed adequately. Among the prisoners are their children and women; many are ill. The local people have been extremely cooperative,” said Numal Mahatta, Superintendent of Police, Cachar.
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has asked the district administration to respond to the situation and take positive action.
“Many families affected by the recent incidents in Manipur have sought refuge in Assam. I have requested the Cachar district administration to take care of these families. I am also in constant touch with N Biren Singh and have promised full support to the Assam government in this hour of crisis.
Jiribam is located on the western border of the state adjoining the Cachar district of Assam. It is also known as the Western Gate of Manipur. Jiribam town is inhabited by several other communities including Meiteis, Bengalis and Kukis. Most of those who have left Manipur in search of asylum are from the wider Kuki community.
“These people have come from Manipur where there has been violence. People are still coming and we are trying our best to provide them shelter and essentials,” said Zothangsanga Hamar, secretary of the Hamar students union.
Clashes between tribals and the majority Mei community broke out in the state on Wednesday, with counter-attacks by rival communities intensifying in retaliation for earlier attacks by Naga and Kuki tribesmen. Scheduled Tribe (ST) status to the Meti community.
According to Manipur Director General of Police P Dongle, 14 companies of paramilitary forces (RAF, CRPF and BSF) have been deployed so far. “More paramilitary forces are coming. Their action will be very different from the Manipur Police as they are trained for combat… 15,000-20,000 victims have been successfully evacuated so far. They have been kept at secure places,” he said.
The police chief also appealed to the people to hand over the weapons snatched by the mob from about 7-8 police posts.
He said, ‘Those who surrender their weapons will be let off considering it as mob action. Those who do not surrender arms will have to face the serious consequences of the law. If they fail to surrender the weapons, then the case can also be handed over to the NIA. Meanwhile, the authorities have identified 23 sensitive police stations.
The Army has said that the situation in Manipur has been brought under control through coordinated action by all stakeholders. “Indian Air Force carried out sustained sorties from two airfields in Assam employing C17 Globemaster and AN 32 aircraft. Induction began on the night of 04 May and dominance of additional columns began in the early hours of 05 May 23. Domination and evacuation of civilians from all communities from the affected areas continued throughout the night. Flag march underway in CC’Pur and other sensitive areas,” read a statement issued by the Defense PRO in Guwahati on Friday.
Army issued helpline numbers:
- All India Army Helpline Number:- 1904
- HQ Eastern Command, Kolkata
Mo:- 7439229496
Landline:- 033-22438703 - 4 Core Tezpur
Mo:- 9387144346
Landline: 036-2124276 - 3 Corps, Rangapahar
Mo:- 8798959257
Landline:- 038-62249122
(With on-the-ground inputs from Anirudh Lashkar and Bisworjit Meity)
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