Union Home Minister Amit Shah announced on Tuesday that the BJP-led central government has developed a comprehensive roadmap to address the ongoing crisis in Manipur. Speaking at a press conference marking the first 100 days of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s third term, Shah detailed the government’s efforts to control the situation in the conflict-ridden state.
Shah highlighted that the violence in Manipur is racially motivated and can only be resolved through dialogue between the affected Kuki and Meitei communities. “We are actively engaging in talks with both groups to find a solution,” he stated. He noted that, aside from a recent three-day period of intensified violence, the situation has been relatively stable over the past three months, and the government remains hopeful of bringing the situation under control.
Addressing the root cause of the problem, Shah pointed to issues related to the India-Myanmar border. He revealed that 30 kilometers of fencing along the border have been completed, with the central government allocating a budget to extend this to the full 1,500 kilometers. The CRPF has been deployed at strategic points to prevent infiltration, and the existing India-Myanmar agreement allowing movement has been nullified, requiring visa entry into India.
In response to the humanitarian needs in Manipur, Shah announced the opening of additional Kendriya Police Kalyan Bhandars to provide essential commodities at reasonable prices. Alongside the 21 existing Bhandars, 16 new facilities will be established, with eight in the hills and eight in the valley areas. “Starting September 17, 2024, these Bhandars will be accessible to the public,” Shah said, emphasizing the government’s commitment to easing the supply of essential goods.
Furthermore, authorities in Manipur’s Bishnupur, Imphal West, Imphal East, and Thoubal districts have relaxed curfew restrictions from September 16, allowing people to shop for essential items and medicines from 5 am to 6 pm.