IMPHAL, July 3: With the farming season in full swing, the Manipur government has significantly stepped up security arrangements across sensitive and vulnerable areas to protect farmers and prevent violence, particularly in the wake of recent incidents in Bishnupur district.
A high-level Combined Headquarters (CHQ) meeting was held on June 28, chaired by the state’s Security Advisor, and attended by the Chief Secretary, Director General of Police (DGP), and top officials from various security forces. The meeting reviewed the prevailing security situation and stressed the need for greater inter-agency coordination, especially after a recent case where a farmer was injured by a bullet allegedly fired from Kuki-inhabited areas in Phubala.
To avert such incidents, Manipur Police personnel have been strategically deployed alongside Central Security Forces across agricultural zones in both hill and valley regions. Special attention has been paid to fringe and interior hill areas, where joint combing operations are now being carried out regularly to eliminate potential threats.
Flying squads and Quick Response Teams (QRTs) have been mobilized to respond swiftly in case of emergencies, while senior police officers are making field visits to assess local needs and security gaps. All District Superintendents of Police (SPs) have been directed by Police Headquarters to immediately enforce heightened security protocols around farming zones.
In addition, local coordination meetings involving the district administration, police, and members of the farming community have been conducted to address safety concerns and define secure farming hours. Farmers have also been urged to notify local police or security personnel before starting work in any area identified as vulnerable.