Fresh violence erupts in Manipur, total curfew reimposed in Imphal West District

In response to the prevailing situation on Thursday where fresh incident of violence shook Manipur, with unrest spreading to both Bishnupur district and Imphal city, the district administration has taken the decision to reinstate a total curfew in Imphal West District, with immediate effect, on Thursday.

According to sources, miscreants gathered outside the second Manipur Rifles (MR) base located in Imphal city, allegedly attempting to loot arms. It has been reported that approximately 300 arms and ammunition were looted from the 2nd IRB (Indian Reserve Battalion) stationed at Naransena in Bishnupur district. The incident has raised significant security concerns in the region.

The situation escalated further when clashes erupted between armed forces and members of the Meitei community protesters in Bishnupur district. As a result of the clashes, a total of 17 people sustained injuries.

The relaxation of the curfew, which was in place from 05:00 am to 08:00 pm on August 3, has been withdrawn. As a result, the movement of the general public outside their residences is now restricted in all areas of the district.

However, certain exemptions have been made to ensure essential services continue to function smoothly. Persons engaged in essential services such as health, electricity, Public Health Engineering Department (PHED), petrol pumps, schools/colleges, municipality workers, and employees from the press and electronic media are allowed to travel during the curfew hours.

Additionally, the functioning of courts and to and fro movement of flight passengers to the airport will also be exempted from the imposition of the curfew.