The volatile situation in Manipur took a grim turn as a Border Security Force (BSF) jawan lost his life and two Assam Rifles personnel sustained gunshot wounds during a clash between security forces and insurgents. The incident occurred in the Serou area, and the injured personnel have been evacuated for treatment. The violence comes in the wake of ongoing ethnic clashes and protests in Manipur, prompting extensive area domination operations by the Indian Army, Assam Rifles, and other security forces.
Background:
The recent wave of violence in Manipur was sparked by a rally organized by the All Tribals Students Union (ATSU) on May 3. The rally aimed to protest the demand for including Meitei Hindus in the Scheduled Tribe (ST) category, following a directive from the Manipur High Court on April 19. The inclusion of Meitei Hindus in the ST category has been a contentious issue, leading to increased tensions among different ethnic groups in the state.
Details of the Incident:
The clashes between security forces and insurgents took place in the Serou area, resulting in the unfortunate death of a BSF jawan and leaving two Assam Rifles personnel injured. The injured person was promptly air-evacuated to receive medical treatment at Mantripukhri. The army officials stated that the security forces effectively retaliated to the insurgent fire during the intermittent exchange of gunfire throughout the night of June 5-6.
Security Operations and Recoveries:
In response to the escalating violence, the Indian Army, Assam Rifles, Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF), and local police initiated extensive area domination operations across Manipur. These operations were carried out in both the hills and valley areas of the state. Unmanned Aerial Vehicles and Quadcopters were utilized for surveillance purposes during the operations. So far, the security forces have made significant progress, recovering 40 weapons, including mortars, ammunition, and other warlike stores.
Government’s Response:
Union Home Minister Amit Shah visited Manipur for a four-day visit in an effort to address the tense situation. During his visit, he appealed to individuals possessing snatched weapons to surrender them promptly, emphasizing the importance of peace and stability in the region. The Manipur Security Forces warned that failure to surrender such weapons would result in strict legal action against the offenders.
The violent clashes in Manipur, resulting in the loss of a BSF jawan’s life and injuries to two Assam Rifles personnel, highlight the escalating tensions in the region. The ethnic clashes and protests revolving around the inclusion of Meitei Hindus in the ST category have contributed to the volatile situation. The Indian Army, Assam Rifles, and other security forces continue their area domination operations to restore peace and stability in Manipur while urging the surrender of illegal weapons to prevent further violence.