The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has assumed responsibility for three key cases linked to the recent outbreak of violence in Manipur. The incidents, which occurred during the first two weeks of November 2024, resulted in the loss of lives and extensive disruption of public order, prompting a transfer of cases from the Manipur Police to the NIA. The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) directed this transition, citing the seriousness of the violence and its impact on the hilly state.
Details of the Three Cases
The first case was initially registered on November 8, 2024, at Jiribam Police Station. It involves the murder of a woman in the Jiribam area by armed militants. The second case, registered on November 11 at Borobekra Police Station, pertains to an armed attack on a Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) post (A-company, 20th Battalion) at Jakuradhor Karong in Jiribam. The third case, also registered on November 11 at Borobekra, involves the burning of houses and the killing of civilians in the Borobekra area.
These cases were formally handed over to the NIA on November 13, following the MHA’s directive to transfer the investigations due to the escalating violence and its severe repercussions on peace and stability in Manipur.
In an official statement issued on November 16, the MHA emphasized the importance of a thorough investigation by the NIA to address the root causes of the violence. “Important cases have been handed over to the NIA for effective investigation,” the statement noted. The transfer follows a period of heightened instability, with clashes between armed groups from both the Kuki-Zo-Hmar and Meitei communities resulting in fatalities and public disorder.
To address the deteriorating security situation, the MHA has directed all security forces to take necessary actions to restore order. It warned of strict measures against those engaging in violent activities and appealed to the public to maintain calm, refrain from spreading rumors, and cooperate with law enforcement to ensure peace.
Deployment of Additional Forces
In light of the recent violence, the MHA has sanctioned the deployment of an additional 2,000 personnel from the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF). More reinforcements may be dispatched if the situation demands, according to sources familiar with the security plans.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah, taking note of the escalating violence, held a high-level meeting with senior officials on Sunday in New Delhi to assess the security scenario. He is expected to chair another meeting today to discuss further measures to stabilize the region.
Following the recent spate of killings, including a gun battle in Jiribam between CRPF personnel and Kuki militants that resulted in the deaths of at least 10 militants, the Manipur Police imposed a curfew in Imphal West and Imphal East districts. The administration has also suspended internet services across seven districts to curb the spread of misinformation.
In addition, heightened security measures have been implemented across Imphal, with significant deployment of forces outside Chief Minister Biren Singh’s residence and the Raj Bhavan. The streets of Imphal saw minimal vehicle movement, indicating the tense atmosphere prevailing in the city.
In a related development, the NIA has also taken over a separate case involving the abduction of six individuals in Jiribam. The bodies of the victims were discovered shortly after the incident, adding to the mounting violence and unrest in the state.
Authorities have urged the public to remain vigilant and cooperate with ongoing efforts to restore peace and order, as Manipur grapples with renewed tensions and instability.
