Imphal (Manipur) [India], July 27 (HBTV): Manipur Police remain steadfast in their resolve to restore stability, protect lives, and uphold the rule of law in the state, which came under threat following ethnic clashes between the Meitei and Kuki-Zo communities in 2023, according to Manipur Director General of Police Rajiv Singh.

As the state gradually returns to normalcy, DGP Singh noted that over 1,000 arms, ammunition, and explosives have been surrendered following an appeal from the Governor, calling it an encouraging sign of disarmament and peace.

‘Manipur Police remains steadfast in our resolve to restore stability, protect lives and uphold the rule of law. The surrender of over 1,000 arms, ammunition and explosives during the Governor's request is an encouraging sign that our push for disarmament and peace is finding ground,’ Singh said.

He stated that these developments indicate a shift towards reconciliation, supported by firm enforcement and responsible dialogue. The DGP also urged the youth to reject violence and contribute to the service of the state and the nation.

Detailing the police actions to restore law and order, Singh said, ‘Over the past few months, in the face of great adversity, Manipur Police, along with Central Armed Forces and sister agencies, have undertaken a series of determined operations to restore law and order. These efforts have resulted in the recovery of thousands of looted arms and large quantities of ammunition and explosives from both hill and valley districts.’

Emphasising the importance of border security, he added, ‘Regular patrolling and domination of vulnerable zones are being carried out to prevent clashes and maintain peace. Border security and fencing initiatives along the Myanmar border are being enhanced to check illegal infiltration. Special task forces have been constituted in all district police units to detect, identify and take appropriate legal action against illegal immigrants.’

DGP Rajiv Singh made these remarks while addressing an event in Imphal on the occasion of Kargil Vijay Diwas on Saturday.

Manipur Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla, who also attended the event, lauded the joint efforts of the government, armed forces, and civil society organisations to restore normalcy and build public confidence.

‘In the ethnic violence in the state of Manipur, many have lost their lives and thousands have been internally displaced. The government has taken various steps to solve the crisis and restore peace and confidence. The joint operation of the combined team of State Police and Armed Forces has been able to recover numerous arms and ammunition over the past few months. The state has been returning to peace and normalcy with the collaborative efforts of the government, armed forces and civil society organisations,’ Bhalla said.

The ethnic clashes between the Meitei and Kuki-Zo communities broke out in 2023, claiming hundreds of lives and displacing over 50,000 people.

In February, President Droupadi Murmu imposed President's Rule in Manipur after receiving a report from the state Governor, following the resignation of N. Biren Singh from the Chief Minister’s post amid escalating violence and prolonged political instability.(ANI)