In the state of Manipur, security forces be it the Manipur Police, CAPF or the Indian Army, have been at the forefront to bring peace and normalcy. They have been undertaking massive efforts to de-weaponise the society apprehend the trouble makers, dismantle the bunkers made by the miscreants. Ironically their efforts are often obstructed by the very people whose safety is paramount for the Security forces. Groups of men and women indulge in hindering the security forces from carrying out their duties. It is a sad irony that the people who try to prevent the Security Forces from carrying out their peacekeeping duties to prevent loss of life and property, are the same set of people who later on mourn injuries and death as a result of the flared up confrontations between the communities.
An apt example of this phenomenon is the standoff that took place between the Meeitis and Kukis at Konaitang area of Tengnoupal District starting from 12 April 2024. Here, the Kuki and the Meetei miscreants had constructed bunkers in Haikot and Konaitong areas respectively and were firing intermittently at each other.
To defuse the situation, the Security Forces proactively engaged leaders of both the communities to persuade the miscreants to disengage peacefully, however these efforts failed. The security forces were then compelled to commence operations to dismantle the illegally constructed bunkers of both the sides with effect from 17 April 2024.
The Security Forces sanitized the area of Haikot Ridge and dismantled two bunkers there and pushed back the Kuki miscreants from the area. Another column of Security Forces started its sanitization operation in Konaitong area but were confronted by a large mob of people including Meira Paibis. The Security Forces exhibited great sense of restraint and disengaged from the mob and later carried out its mandated task of sanitizing the area, dismantling five bunkers and pushing back the Meitei miscreants.
It has to be understood by the general public that while the security forces are doing their best to usher in peace, the citizens must co-operate and assist them in discharging their duties towards maintenance of peace in the state. Only then there will be ever lasting peace possible in the state.
(Source based)
