Armed forces carry out flag march at Imphal, troops beef up security in Imphal, Kangpokpi, Churachandpur

Imphal: Security forces held flag march in the heart of Imphal, the capital city of strife-torn Manipur while security measures have been intensified in Imphal West, Imphal East, Kangpokpi and Churachandpur among other places, on Friday.

Similar flag marches were also held on Friday night and Saturday morning in the Khwairamband market area, the heart of the city. The Coordinating Committee on Manipur Integrity (COCOMI) announced to hold a public convention on May 3 at Khuman Lampak in Imphal, while the Indigenous Tribal Leaders’ Forum (ITLF) announced to observe the day as Separation Day in Churachandpur.

May 3, 2023 was the day conflict between Meitei and Kuki Zo community erupted when Kuki-Zo people launched attack to Meitei villages Ethnic violence first erupted in Churachandpur district on May 3, 2023, following a mass rally organized by the All Tribal Students’ Union Manipur in opposition to the recommendation for granting Scheduled Tribe (ST) status to the Meitei community. Thousands of Meiteis residing in Churachandpur fled as Kuki mob vandalized and set their homes on fire. Meiteis retaliated by vandalizing properties belonging to Kukis in the valley.

According to Manipur Police officials, security has been tightened with intensive frisking and checking at key locations in Imphal, Kangpokpi, Churachandpur, and other vulnerable districts. On Friday, around 200 vehicles belonging to combined security forces including state and central forces conducted a flag march in and around Imphal city, covering both Imphal East and West districts. The march began around 4 pm from the City Convention Centre in Imphal East and continued throughout the city.

“Manipur has been in turmoil since 2023. Many people have died, been injured, or gone missing. The joint security flag march is being conducted to reassure the public and prevent any form of violence,” said a senior police officer.

Since the outbreak of violence, over 250 people have been killed and more than 60,000 displaced. Manipur has been under President’s Rule since February 13 after N. Biren Singh resigned as chief minister on February 9, on the eve of the 7th session of the 12th Manipur Legislative Assembly that was cancelled.