Shah's Churachandpur visit in Manipur: Financial aid of Rs 10 Lakh announced for victims of ethnic violence

Imphal, May 30, 2023, IANS

Union Home Minister Amit Shah, in his visit to the violence-stricken state of Manipur, arrived in the district of Churachandpur on Tuesday. This district has been severely affected by the recent ethnic violence that has plagued the state since May 3, resulting in the tragic loss of at least 75 lives and leaving over 300 injured.

During a meeting between the Home Minister and the state council of ministers, led by Chief Minister [Chief Minister's Name], it was decided to provide compensation of Rs 10 lakh each to the families of those who lost their lives during the ethnic clashes. Additionally, a government job will be offered to a family member of those who were killed in the violence. The compensation amount will be shared equally by the central and state governments.

In Churachandpur, which is predominantly inhabited by tribal communities, Amit Shah held crucial meetings with Civil Society Organisations (CSOs), influential tribal leaders, and local security and civil administration officials. The purpose of these engagements was to assess the ground situation, gather valuable insights, and gain a better understanding of the challenges faced by the affected communities, as stated by a government official in Imphal.

The Home Minister is expected to convene an all-party meeting in Imphal, either on Tuesday or Wednesday, as part of the government's efforts to restore peace and normalcy in Manipur. The ethnic hostilities have resulted in the destruction of a significant number of government and non-government properties, including nearly 1,800 houses.

Earlier in the day, Amit Shah held a series of meetings with top civil and security officials, CSOs, and a delegation of women leaders, including representatives from Meira Paibi, an influential women's organization. The discussions aimed to emphasize the role of women in Manipuri society and reinforce the collective commitment to ensuring peace and prosperity in the state.

Expressing his satisfaction with the discussions, the Home Minister took to Twitter, stating, "Had a fruitful discussion with members of different Civil Society Organizations today in Imphal. They expressed their commitment to peace and assured that we would together contribute to paving the way to restore normalcy in Manipur."

The state government has implemented various measures to address the ethnic violence, including the deployment of 140 columns of the Army and Assam Rifles, along with additional central and state forces in the affected areas. Curfews have been imposed in 11 districts, and internet services have been suspended since May 3. Despite these efforts, sporadic incidents and attacks continue to occur, particularly in the fringe areas of the Imphal Valley.

In a disturbing development, an angry mob vandalized and set fire to the residence of former MLA Yamthong Haokip in the Imphal West district on Monday. Haokip, who was undergoing treatment outside the state for a heart condition, was not present at the time of the attack.

This incident follows the vandalization and arson of houses belonging to ministers, MLAs, and leaders of various political parties. The mobs accuse these individuals and the state government of not taking effective measures against Kuki militants and miscreants to curb the violent situation. (Edited)