Manipur: Section 144 imposed in Churachandpur district after fresh violence

The Manipur government has imposed prohibitory orders under Section 144 of the CrPC in Churachandpur district for two months against fresh acts of violence, according to an official order.

Various parts of the northeastern state have been ravaged by ethnic conflicts since May this year.

Since Monday, sporadic incidents of violence have been reported at various places in Churachandpur district, especially in Thingkangphai village.

“There is still a possibility that peace may be disturbed due to confrontation between two groups of people… and the situation remains tense,” the district magistrate said in an order.

The prohibitory orders banning gathering of five or more people and carrying weapons were imposed on Monday and will remain in force till February 18, 2024.

District Magistrate Dharun Kumar S said the command forces have made every possible effort to maintain peace in the affected areas.

More than 180 people were killed in violence that broke out on May 3 after a “tribal solidarity march” was organized in the hill districts to protest against the Meitei community’s demand for getting Scheduled Tribe (ST) status. ,

The Meitei people represent about 53 percent of Manipur’s population and live mainly in the Imphal valley, while the tribals, including the Nagas and Kukis, constitute 40 percent and live mainly in the hill districts.