Authorities in Manipur of India reimposed a curfew in the Imphal valley and suspended internet in at least seven districts on Saturday amid simmering tensions over the abduction of six members of a Meitei family and the subsequent recovery of three unidentified bodies, even as the state government urged the Centre to withdraw the recent reimposition of Afspa in parts of Manipur, reports Hindustan Times.
The protesters stormed the residence of two state ministers and five MLAs — set fire to shops, torched vehicles and blocked prominent roads amid the fresh wave of violence to besiege the state, people aware of the matter said. There were also reports that chief minister N Biren Singh’s personal residence was stormed late on Saturday night.
Amid the volatile ground situation, Imphal West district magistrate Th Kirankumar and Imphal East district magistrate Khumanthem Diana announced the clampdown of a curfew in the two areas of Imphal East and Imphal West, days after it was lifted in separate but identical orders.
“Now, due to the developing law and order situation in the district, the above-mentioned curfew relaxation order stands cancelled with immediate effect, from Saturday. Total curfew is imposed with effect from 4.30pm (Local Time) on Saturday, until further orders,” the order said.
Manipur chief secretary Vineet Joshi announced the suspension of internet services in Imphal West and Imphal East, Bishnupur, Thoubal, Kakching, Kangkokpi, and Churchandpur, covering the strongholds of both Meitei and tribal communities.
Bd-pratidin English/Tanvir Raihan
