In recent days, the state of Assam has witnessed a significant influx of people fleeing violence in neighboring Manipur. The fresh violence in Manipur’s Jiribam district has led to hundreds of individuals from various ethnic backgrounds seeking refuge in Assam, particularly in the Lakhipur area of Cachar district. This development has promoted the Assam government to intensify security measures along its interstate border to prevent the violence from spilling over and ensure the displaced individuals’ safety.
The violence in Manipur began on June 6, following the discovery of the body of Soibam Saratkumar Singh, a 59-year-old Meitei farmer who had been missing for weeks. The incident sparked outrage among residents, who converged on the Jiribam police station, demanding the right to arm themselves for protection. This escalation led the Jiribam district Magistrate to impose a district-wide curfew to curb the violence.
The situation quickly spilled over into Assam, with approximately 600 individuals from various ethnic backgrounds fleeing to Lakhipur in Cachar district. These displaced persons have sought shelter with relatives, hoping to escape the violence in their home state. The influx of refugees has put a significant strain on the local administration, which has been working to provide them with necessary support and ensure their safety.
In response to the influx and to prevent the violence from crossing the border, Assam Police has significantly ramped up security measures. Special commando units have been deployed along the Assam-Manipur border, and regular patrols have been initiated to maintain order and reassure the local population. The police have also been working closely with the local community to prevent any further escalation of violence.
Numal Mahatta, the Superintendent of Police in Cachar, emphasized the importance of collaborative efforts between the police and the local community in maintaining peace. “After the incidents of violence in Manipur’s Jiribam, we have deployed sufficient security, including our special commando force in the bordering areas. They are conducting regular patrols, and the people are living peacefully in Lakhipur. Nearly 600 people have taken shelter with their relatives after the violence erupted on the other side of the border. We are closely monitoring the situation to ensure that similar incidents do not occur in our state,” he said.
The situation in Jiribam remains tense, with ongoing efforts to manage the unrest and prevent further escalation. The curfew, imposed on June 6, continues to be an effect as authorities work to stabilize the region and prevent further violence. The Assam government has also instructed the local administration to provide shelter to those fleeing violence from the neighboring state while ensuring proper listing and documentation of the displaced individuals.
Local MLA Kaushik Rai praised the efforts of the local administration in ensuring the safety of the refugees. “The people who have come from Manipur are being allowed to stay here safely. The local administration is taking all steps to ensure no spread of any violence here,” he said.
The recent violence in Manipur is part of a larger ethnic conflict that has been ongoing since May last year. The conflict between the Imphal valley-based Meitis and hill-based Kukis has led to the deaths of over 200 people and rendered thousands homeless. The current influx of refugees into Assam highlights the need for a sustained and coordinated effort to address the root causes of the conflict and ensure the safety and well-being of all individuals affected.
In conclusion, the recent violence in Manipur has led to a significant influx of refugees into Assam, prompting the state government to intensify security measures along its interstate border. The Assam Police has deployed special commando units and initiated regular patrols to maintain order and reassure the local population. The local administration has also been working closely with the community to prevent further escalation of violence. As the situation in Jiribam remains tense, the authorities must continue to work together to manage the unrest and prevent further violence, ensuring the safety and well-being of all individuals affected.