Union Home Minister Amit Shah announced on Tuesday that the BJP-led central government has developed a roadmap to address the ongoing crisis in Manipur. Speaking at a press conference marking the first 100 days of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s third term, Shah emphasized the government’s commitment to restoring peace in the troubled state.
Shah characterized the violence in Manipur as racial in nature, saying that a resolution can only be achieved through dialogue between the affected groups. He confirmed that the central government is actively engaging with both Kuki and Meitei communities to find a mutually acceptable solution.
“We are hopeful to bring the situation under control,” Shah said, adding that while violence flared up recently for three days, no major incidents have occurred in the past three months.
The Home Minister identified the India-Myanmar border as the root cause of the problem in Manipur. In response, the government has initiated a border fencing project, with 30 kilometers already completed. Shah announced plans to fence the entire 1,500-kilometer border, with CRPF forces deployed at strategic locations to prevent infiltration.
Further measures include nullifying an agreement between India and Myanmar that previously allowed free movement of people across the border. Now, entry into India from Myanmar is only permitted with a valid visa.
Earlier, the Union government decided to provide essential commodities to the people of Manipur at reasonable prices by opening Kendriya Police Kalyan Bhandars.
Shah said that in addition to 21 existing Bhandars, 16 new facilities will be opened. Among the 16 new centres, eight will be in the valley, and the remaining eight in the hills.
On Monday, authorities in Manipur’s Bishnupur, Imphal West, Imphal East and Thoubal districts relaxed curfew from 5 am to 6 pm to enable people to buy essential items including medicines.
(Inputs from ANI)