Imphal, 29 May (MTNews): Union Home Minister Amit Shah arrived in Imphal on Monday amidst ongoing reports of violence in different parts of Manipur. According to sources from the Ministry of Home Affairs, the minister was accompanied by Home Secretary Ajay Bhalla and other senior officials from the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA).

 

Ahead of Amit Shah’s visit, Imphal was adorned with posters in various locations, calling for support from the central government in addressing the unrest caused by the ethnic clashes between the majority Hindu Meitei population and the minority Christian Kuki community. These posters across Imphal conveyed messages such as ‘We need your support’ and ‘We want peaceful coexistence,’ reflecting the aspirations of the people.

 

Shah’s visit to the northeastern state is aimed at assessing the situation and devising strategies to restore normalcy. This is Shah’s first visit to Manipur since ethnic clashes erupted on 3 May.

 

During his stay in the state until June 1, according to sources, the Home Minister will hold multiple security meetings to evaluate the prevailing conditions and plan further steps to foster a conducive environment for resolution through dialogue.

 

Assurances of safety will be extended to the communities, urging them to lay down arms and engage in peaceful talks, sources said.

 

Notably, the Kuki community has already initiated discussions with the government, expressing their demands for autonomy in their respective areas, which will be taken into consideration, according to a home ministry official.

 

Shah’s visit comes amid fresh incidents of violence, including firing, vandalism, and arson reported from various locations in Manipur. Since Sunday, at least two deaths, including that of a policeman, have been recorded, with numerous individuals sustaining injuries. Sources within Manipur indicate that the situation remains tense, with sporadic violence continuing to occur along the boundary between the valley and hill districts. The valley is predominantly inhabited by Meiteis, while the hills are home to tribal communities, including the Kukis.

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