Centre pushes security-reconciliation strategy
KRC TIMES Manipur Bureau
Imphal : Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Wednesday chaired a high-level security review meeting with Manipur Chief Minister N. Biren Singh in New Delhi, amid persistent concerns over the state’s fragile law and order situation.
The neeting held at the Parliament House complex, focused on expediting the peace process and restoring trust among communities in the violence-hit state, nearly two years after ethnic clashes erupted in May 2023. Sources said the Home Minister emphasised the need to accelerate reconciliation efforts and rebuild inter-community confidence, which continues to remain elusive on the ground.
In a key outcome, Shah granted in-principle approval for the ??? of a Mahila India Reserve Battalion (IRB) in Manipur, aimed at strengthening the security apparatus while promoting greater participation of women in policing. The state government has been asked to submit a formal proposal for the same.
The Chief Minister had travelled to the national capital a day earlier, underscoring the urgency of the situation as sporadic tensions persist despite ongoing security operations. Officials indicated that law and order challenges remain a major concern, with limited visible progress in restoring full normalcy.
Compounding the situation are unresolved demands from valley-based civil society groups seeking restoration of free movement along key highways, particularly up to Churachandpur and Moreh. These restrictions continue to highlight the incomplete return to normalcy in the state.
Additionally, emerging tensions in Ukhrul district have raised fresh concerns about stability in the hill regions, further complicating the security landscape.
The review assumes significance as the Centre appears to be pursuing a dual strategy-tightening security enforcement on the ground while simultaneously pushing for reconciliation among affected communities. Observers note that unless tangible progress is made in ensuring free movement and addressing district-level instability, claims of improving normalcy may remain limited in scope.
