On June 19, in an MVCP established by Army, four suspected cadres of UNLF were apprehended with 51mm mortar and handed over to the police. However, within hours all four were released on bail. As on date, Assam Rifles has deployed more than 95 columns to maintain law and order and restore peace in the violence hit Manipur. However, the ongoing situation is extremely concerning due to the complexities of banned Meitei insurgent groups like PLA and UNLF joining the common people and instigating violence. The weapons stolen from the police armory are yet to be fully recovered. These are unfortunately being used with impunity in the conflict zones. Efforts of the Security Forces are being undermined by such blatant misuse of law in which even suspected cadres found with weapons are being recycled within hours.

The endeavours to trace and apprehend the miscreants should not go in vain as it leads to recycling of the perpetrators and continuation of violence. It is important that the state police and other authorities act promptly to recover the remaining weapons, prevent their misuse and take strict actions against the apprehended insurgents trying to disturb the law and order of the state.

A coordinated and sustained effort by all the concerned agencies is crucial to ensure the safety and security of the people of Manipur. Assam Rifles, with their unwavering efforts have earned the trust and respect of the local communities over the years. The local police should not be found complicit in such situation and the law of the land should apply to all firmly. Only then, some trust deficit can be overcome between communities to achieve everlasting peace.

Article source: Assam Rifles.