Manipur govt warns banned groups against threats

The Manipur government has issued a firm warning against any individual or organisation attempting to disturb peace or intimidate citizens, declaring that such actions will be met with strict legal consequences. The move comes at a sensitive time, as the state continues to navigate tensions and the lingering impact of the 2023 ethnic violence.

In an official statement released on Thursday, Chief Secretary Puneet Kumar Goel said the government had taken note of “certain organisations” that were spreading threats and creating fear among law-abiding residents. He stressed that such attempts to disrupt Manipur’s fragile peace would not be tolerated.

This warning follows recent pressure from a coalition of five banned groups in the state. Earlier this week, these extremist outfits demanded that all participants of the recently held Sangai Festival issue a public apology by December 10. They labelled participation in the tourism festival a “betrayal” of the suffering of internally displaced persons (IDPs) who continue to remain away from their homes.

The Sangai Festival, held from November 21 to 30, took place even as groups of IDPs held protests demanding an immediate return to their native villages. The displaced families have been living in relief camps since last year’s violent clashes between the Meitei and Kuki communities.

Responding to the threats, the government said Manipur Police had already begun taking action against those attempting to stir unrest. It clarified that no individual or organisation, whether banned or legal, holds any authority to issue public orders, impose punishments, or restrict lawful cultural, economic or artistic activities in the state.

The statement further warned that anyone found involved in intimidation, threats, or actions that compromise the safety of citizens would face prosecution “without exception” under the law. The government emphasised that disrupting peaceful coexistence amounts to acting against the interests of the state and its people.

Reaffirming its commitment to restoring stability, the state government urged citizens to unite against unlawful elements and support ongoing efforts to maintain peace, harmony and public order. It said this collective responsibility is essential for putting Manipur back on the path of development after a period of prolonged turmoil.

Since the ethnic clashes erupted in May 2023, at least 260 people have been killed and thousands forced to flee their homes, creating one of the state’s most challenging humanitarian and security crises in decades.