Amit Shah unveils measures to address Manipur ethnic violence

As the aftermath of ethnic violence that rocked Manipur reverberates through the state, Union Home Minister Amit Shah assured strict action against violators of peace while simultaneously emphasising the need for dialogue, rehabilitation, and education, during a press conference on Thursday.
The violence, sparked by controversies surrounding the demand for the inclusion of the Meitei/Meetei community in the Scheduled Tribe (ST) category, has resulted in considerable loss of life and damage to properties. This escalating crisis has drawn government, prompting the intervention of Union Home Minister Amit Shah. Following a four-day visit to the state, Shah announced a dual-track approach to restore normalcy. This includes setting up a probe committee, headed by a retired high court judge, to investigate the violent incidents impartially and without discrimination. Additionally, a peace committee, chaired by the Governor of Manipur, Anusuiya Uikey, and comprising members of civil society, will be established. The Union Home Minister urged citizens to disregard fake news and to surrender weapons, warning that those violating the Suspension of Operations (SoO) agreement will face strict action. “Violence was a temporary phase, misunderstandings will go away … the situation will soon be normal,” Shah reassured. In a bid to better coordinate security measures, an Inter-Agency Unified Command will be formed. It will comprise joint secretary-level officers from the Home Ministry and director-level officers from different departments. There are currently around 10,000 army and Assam Rifles personnel, along with state and central police forces maintaining peace in Manipur. A special focus is placed on education amid the crisis. Officials will be working to ensure uninterrupted education facilities for students, including plans for online education and examinations. Compensation for families affected by the violence has been announced. The next of kin of those who lost their lives in the violence will be given Rs 5 lakh by the central government and Rs 5 lakh by the Manipur government. The funds will be directly transferred to the victims through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT). During his visit, Shah met with representatives of the Meitei and Kuki communities and expressed his condolences to the families affected by the violence. “On behalf of the Government of India, on behalf of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and on my own behalf, I express my deepest condolences to all those who have died in the recent violence,” he said. The minister also highlighted the progress made by the Bharatiya Janta Party (BJP) government in the state over the last six years, mark