Amidst ongoing incidents of violence in Manipur’s Bishnupur, the local authorities have taken swift action by scrapping the total curfew relaxation in Imphal (East) and Imphal (West) districts. The decision comes after clashes between protestors from the Meitei community and security forces in Bishnupur, which escalated to the use of heavy firing to disperse the crowd.
The Office of District Magistrate, Government of Manipur, issued an order stating the withdrawal of the total curfew relaxation that was initially scheduled from 05:00 am to 08:00 pm on August 3 in Imphal (West) district. In light of the escalating violence and the need to restore order, a total curfew has been reimposed in the district, with immediate effect. This imposition includes strict restrictions on the movement of the general public outside their residences.
However, certain essential services such as health facilities, electricity supply, Public Health Engineering Department (PHED) services, petrol pumps, schools/colleges, municipality services, and press and electronic media operations will be exempted from the curfew restrictions. Additionally, the functioning of courts and the to-and-fro movement of flight passengers to the airport will also be allowed during this period.
The state of Manipur has been grappling with ethnic violence since May 3, resulting in a significant loss of life with at least 150 casualties reported. The situation remains tense, and the authorities are closely monitoring the developments to restore peace and ensure the safety and security of the people in the region.
The imposition of the curfew aims to curb any further escalation of violence and protect the lives and properties of the residents. By exempting essential services, the authorities are ensuring that critical functions can continue without interruption despite the curfew measures. As the situation unfolds, efforts are being made to bring the situation under control and address the root causes of the violence to achieve lasting peace and stability in Manipur.
