Imphal, Sept 23: Manipur Chief Minister N. Biren Singh, while addressing the media during a press conference at his secretariat, announced the resumption of mobile internet services, emphasizing the gradual improvement of the law-and-order situation in the state.
The internet services had been suspended in response to escalating violence, as a measure to reduce tension and curb the spread of hate speech and fake news. Observing the current scenario’s return to normalcy, the government decided to revoke the internet ban, effective immediately.
Chief Minister Biren Singh reiterated the state government’s commitment to fighting illegal immigration, the war on drugs, protecting the state’s integrity, and ensuring the welfare of displaced people. He acknowledged that despite these commitments, fresh unrest in valley areas was hindering the implementation of such initiatives.
One of the strategic measures implemented was the suspension of the Free Movement Regime (FMR) with Myanmar, which allowed people on either side to travel up to 16 kilometers inside the other country. The state government has requested the central government to permanently close this agreement in the state.
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Furthermore, Chief Minister Biren Singh mentioned that a cabinet subcommittee, led by Minister Letpao Haokip, was formed to identify and check illegal immigrants from outside the state. As per the central government’s direction, biometric recording must be completed by September 2023. Since biometric recording is a preliminary step for the National Register of Citizens (NRC), the state government has urged the center to extend the biometric process’s timeline by a year.
Approval has also been granted for border fencing along the India-Myanmar areas, covering approximately 60 kilometers in vulnerable areas, and the project has been awarded to the Border Road Organisation (BRO).
To address the issue of poppy plantations, a joint committee comprising the Narcotics Control Bureau and Narcotics and Affairs of Border (NAB) has been established.
Expressing concern over people using derogatory terms to disrespect the government, Chief Minister Biren Singh emphasized the government’s ability to successfully address all issues with public support.
He highlighted that the present crisis primarily revolves around illegal immigrants who pose a serious threat to the state’s security and stability. However, he noted that issues appear to be diverting from the core problem. He urged the public to understand the root causes of the current crisis and extend their support to the government.
Chief Minister Biren Singh credited the pause in gunfights over the past month to the proper deployment of security forces in vulnerable areas. Security forces have also started entering Churachandpur, with the cooperation of the town’s residents. The police have arrested 25 individuals in the district, and seven cases have been charge-sheeted in connection with the ongoing security situation.
