Tue Sep 10 18:52:55 UTC 2024: ## Manipur Police Refute Former Assam Rifles Chief’s Claims of Ethnic Division Within Force

**Imphal:** The Manipur Police have vehemently refuted claims made by retired Lieutenant General PC Nair, former Director General of the Assam Rifles, suggesting a division within the police force along ethnic lines. In a press conference on Tuesday, Manipur’s Inspector General of Police (Operations) IK Muivah labeled the comments “immature” and indicative of a “myopic mindset.”

Lt Gen Nair, in an interview with News9, had claimed that the Manipur Police were divided between the Meitei and Kuki communities, stating that there was no “Manipur Police” but rather a “Meitei Police” and a “Kuki Police.” He attributed this division to the volatile situation in the state and the need for police personnel to protect their families.

Muivah, however, firmly denied this assertion, stating that the Manipur Police comprises individuals from all communities, including Meitei, Kuki, and Naga. He termed the former AR chief’s statement as “harmful” and “false.”

The Manipur Police also challenged Lt Gen Nair’s denial of the use of weaponized drones in the state. They presented evidence collected from drone bombing sites, including downed drones, debris, and bomb residue, which they plan to hand over to the National Investigation Agency (NIA) for further investigation.

Meanwhile, the All Manipur Working Journalists’ Union (AMWJU) also refuted Lt Gen Nair’s claims of partisan media coverage in the state, emphasizing the need for him to engage with local media for a balanced perspective.

The controversy stems from the ongoing ethnic clashes in Manipur between the Meitei and Kuki communities, which have resulted in over 220 deaths and the displacement of nearly 50,000 people. The Assam Rifles, responsible for guarding the Indo-Myanmar border, has been accused of bias by both communities.

The Manipur Police’s strong reaction to the former AR chief’s remarks further highlights the deeply rooted tensions and mistrust plaguing the state, emphasizing the need for a neutral and impartial approach to restore peace and harmony.

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