Security Ramped Up In Manipur After Militant Outfits' Call To Boycott I-Day Celebrations

Security escalated in Manipur due to militant groups' boycott call for 77th Independence Day. Coordination Committee seeks "general strike."

Authorities in Manipur's restive region on Sunday (August 13) increased security precautions in response to a call by militant groups to boycott the 77th Independence Day celebrations. The Coordination Committee (CorCom), an alliance of prominent underground organisations in the state, issued a statement calling for a "general strike" on August 15 from 1 am to 6:30 pm, signalling increased tensions in the region.

The CorCom, known for its support for Manipur's independence, criticised the Indian government's handling of the ethnic crisis and accused it of engaging in divisive policies among the various ethnic groups. The CorCom emphasised Manipur's historical sovereignty in a strong statement, drawing attention to the region's status prior to India's annexation.

The statement read: "The political status of Manipur declined abruptly with the Indian Annexation of Manipur on 15 October 1949 by which Sovereign Manipur was reduced to just a Chief Commissioner’s Province. What Manipur has witnessed the unabated ethnic cauldron and animosity today is the direct fallout of colonial oppressive policy of India after the annexation of Manipur in clear violation of the prevalent international laws."

"The Manipur People should now understand that the huge deployment of Indian occupation forces is not the solution but a ploy for Indian military built-up in this fragile region," it added further. 

Security forces, including the Indian Army, Manipur Police, and Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF), have escalated their presence throughout the state. Their efforts are focused on conducting comprehensive combing and search operations in vulnerable and sensitive areas to prevent any untoward incidents during the Independence Day celebrations.

In response to the CorCom's boycott call, Manipur's security apparatus is taking no chances, aiming to ensure a safe and incident-free celebrations. Essential services such as medical facilities, electricity, water supply, fire services, media, and religious observances will remain operational despite the general strike, as per the statement. 

The current situation in the strife-torn state by and large remains peaceful with no major incident being reported in the past 72 hours.