Sat Jan 04 17:48:19 UTC 2025: ## Manipur Governor Calls for Strong Action Against Violence Amidst Rising Tensions

**Imphal, Manipur –** A day after assuming office, Manipur’s Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla chaired a high-level security meeting on Saturday to address the escalating violence in the state. The meeting, attended by key security officials including the Security Adviser and Director-General of Police, focused on strengthening law enforcement and improving inter-agency coordination. Chief Minister N. Biren Singh was notably absent.

Governor Bhalla advocated for utilizing legal measures, including the National Security Act, against those responsible for the unrest. He also emphasized the need to create employment opportunities for misguided youth and directed security agencies to prepare dossiers on key instigators of violence.

The meeting highlighted violations of ceasefire ground rules by the Pambei faction of the United National Liberation Front (UNLF), a Meitei insurgent group that had previously surrendered. Concerns were raised about the group’s continued activities, particularly in border areas.

Yaingangpokpi (YKPI), a volatile buffer zone between the Meitei valley and Kuki-Zo hills, has emerged as a new flashpoint. At least 50 firing incidents have been reported in the area since December 24th, triggered by a protest against the establishment of a Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) camp. The protest, organized by the Committee On Tribal Unity (CoTU), turned violent, injuring the Superintendent of Police in Kangpokpi. The strategic location of YKPI, surrounded by a highway and a forest, and the presence of bunkers from both Kuki-Zo and Meitei groups, have contributed to the ongoing conflict. A recent joint operation dismantled six Kuki-Zo bunkers, but tensions remain high.

The situation underscores the fragility of the peace process in Manipur and the need for decisive action to quell the escalating violence. The Governor’s emphasis on strong legal measures and employment initiatives suggests a renewed focus on tackling the root causes of the conflict.

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