Imphal:   MLA Rajkumar Imo Singh has appealed to the Union Home Minister Amit Shah to address the deteriorating situation in Manipur.  Rajkumar also voice grave concerns over the recent violence by illegal armed militants have resulted in the deaths of two people, including an innocent woman, and left several others injured, including children and security personnel. These violent incidents occurred shortly after a so-called “Peace Rally” was held across the state.

In a letter addressed to the Union Home Minister, Singh emphasized that the ongoing conflict is not merely an ethnic clash but a series of insurgents acts by illegal armed groups with broader, more dangerous motives. Despite the conflict persisting for over 15 months since it began in May of the previous year, violence continues to plague the state, with recent escalations including drone attacks and shelling reminiscent of warfare in neighboring countries.

Singh questioned the effectiveness of the approximately 60,000 central forces currently deployed in Manipur, arguing that their presence has not brought peace. He suggested that if these forces cannot stop the violence, they should be withdrawn, allowing state forces to take charge. While acknowledging the removal of certain uncooperative Assam Rifles units, he stressed the need for more stringent action against illegal militant groups that have violated the Suspension of Operations (SOO) agreement. He urged the Union Home Ministry to abrogate the SOO and investigate the funding and supply of arms fueling the violence.

Furthermore, Singh called for the unified command in the state to be handed over to the state government, led by the Chief Minister, to allow for more effective action in restoring peace. He also urged the central government to initiate political dialogue and engagement with all stakeholders to achieve a permanent and peaceful resolution to the conflict.

The MLA also expressed confidence that the Union Home Minister is actively engaging with various sections of the government and society to restore peace in Manipur but emphasized the urgent need for visible actions on the ground to halt the ongoing violence.