IMPHAL: The Union government has directed the deployment of two additional Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) battalions, comprising 2,000 personnel, to Manipur amidst ongoing unrest.

The CRPF personnel, trained in various internal security operations, will also require specialized equipment, logistical support, and anti-drone technology. This deployment adds to the 16 CRPF battalions already stationed across Imphal East, Imphal West, Kangpokpi, Bishnupur, Churachandpur, Jiribam, and Noney, where they were instructed to maintain tight command and control over their companies.

The move comes shortly after the withdrawal of two Assam Rifles battalions from Manipur for operational duties in Jammu and Kashmir and other parts of the Northeast.

Manipur MLA Rajkumar Imo Singh hailed the replacement of Assam Rifles units with CRPF forces, claiming it aligns with the wishes of the people who are seeking stronger measures to restore peace in the violence-torn state.

However, this decision has sparked protests in Kangpokpi district, where on September 11, hundreds of Kuki-Zo women blocked the withdrawal of Assam Rifles personnel from the 22 Assam Rifles Post.

The protest followed a community meeting where the Kuki-Zo people threatened to shut down all Assam Rifles camps in the district unless the government reversed its decision to replace the paramilitary units.

Agencies

Agencies