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The escalating violence in Manipur continues to grip the state, with fresh incidents leading to further loss of life and heightened security measures. On Saturday, five people were killed in the Jiribam district, prompting the district magistrate to issue prohibitory orders restricting gatherings of more than five people and the carrying of arms. This decision comes in response to a gun battle between two armed groups, triggered by the killing of an elderly man while asleep. The clash resulted in the deaths of three suspected Kuki militants and one armed Meitei man.
The recent violence in Jiribam is just the latest manifestation of the ongoing conflict that has plagued Manipur since May 2022. The conflict, rooted in long-standing ethnic tensions, has resulted in over 200 deaths and displaced thousands. The violence has taken a new turn with the emergence of air strikes, a tactic previously unseen in the state. In the past week, militants have used drones to drop crude bombs on villages in Imphal West, leaving two people dead and several injured. This escalation has prompted the Manipur Chief Minister, N Biren Singh, to label these attacks as 'acts of terrorism.'
In response to the escalating threat of drone attacks, the state police force has taken decisive action. Anti-drone systems have been deployed at various locations throughout Manipur, and additional systems are being procured to counter the aerial threats. The government has emphasized its commitment to tackling this new form of violence and protecting the indigenous population. The situation in Manipur remains volatile, with the potential for further violence and unrest. The deployment of additional security forces and the implementation of prohibitory orders underscore the gravity of the situation. The authorities are working to restore peace and stability, but the path ahead remains fraught with challenges and uncertainties.
Source: Manipur Violence: Prohibitory Orders Clamped After 5 Killed In Jiribam, Anti-Drone Systems Deployed