Over 10,000 Additional Soldiers Deployed to Manipur Amid Escalating Violence

New Delhi: In response to a fresh wave of ethnic violence, the central government has decided to deploy over 10,000 additional soldiers to Manipur. This reinforcement brings the total number of central security forces in the state to 288 companies, according to Manipur's Chief Security Adviser, Kuldiep Singh.

Addressing the media in Imphal, Mr. Singh confirmed that 90 companies—approximately 10,800 personnel—are being added to the already substantial security presence. "A sizable portion of the reinforcements has already reached Imphal, and these forces are being strategically distributed to protect civilians, safeguard properties, and monitor vulnerable areas," he said.

Mr. Singh assured the public that comprehensive arrangements are being made to restore peace and order. "New coordination cells and joint control rooms are being established in every district. Existing setups have also been reviewed for efficiency," he stated.

The violence in Manipur, which began in May 2023 due to clashes between the Meitei community and the Kuki tribes, has claimed 258 lives so far. Security forces have also recovered approximately 3,000 weapons looted from police armories during the unrest.

All available security agencies, including the Manipur Police, Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), Border Security Force (BSF), Army, Assam Rifles, Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP), and Sashastra Seema Bal, are working in unison to contain the situation. A new Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) is being formulated to secure vulnerable fringe areas and national highways.

"We are united in tackling the crisis in Manipur. Joint operations are underway, and any issues arising are dealt with collaboratively," Mr. Singh added.

The recent deployment follows a surge in violence triggered by the killing of a woman from the Hmar tribe in Jiribam's Zairawn village on November 7. The victim, a mother of three, was allegedly murdered by suspected Meitei militants.

In retaliation, Kuki militants launched an attack on Jiribam’s Borobekra on November 11, killing two Meitei senior citizens. During the ensuing violence, the militants took six members of a Meitei family hostage and later executed them, including an infant. The bodies were discovered in a nearby river following an encounter with the CRPF, during which 10 militants were killed.

Authorities are focused on de-escalating tensions and preventing further loss of life. The reinforcement of central forces is aimed at stabilizing the region and rebuilding trust among communities. Enhanced security measures are expected to provide relief to those affected by the prolonged conflict.

The situation remains tense, and the central and state governments continue to monitor developments closely.