The Indian Army and Assam Rifles have rescued over 23000 civilians in Manipur and transported them to operating bases, as per a statement released by the Indian Army on Sunday. The people were evacuated amidst ethnic violence between the Meitei and Kuki communities that broke out on May 3. The army has also increased aerial surveillance through the movement of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and the redeployment of helicopters in the Imphal Valley.
As per the Indian Express, at least 52 people have been killed in Manipur due to the ongoing violence, and there is little clarity regarding the official scale of fatalities and damage. Chief Minister N Biren Singh held an all-party meeting on Saturday and had a video conference with security personnel to appeal for calm and an end to the violence.
On Sunday, amidst a curfew relaxation period, people were seen stepping out of their homes to buy essential commodities like food and medicines in the Churachandpur district. Late Saturday night, Singh announced partial relaxation of the curfew, stating that the law and order situation in the district had improved.
Around 10,000 soldiers, paramilitary forces, and central police forces personnel have been deployed in the northeastern state. The Indian Army’s efforts to rescue and transport civilians to safety have been instrumental in preventing further damage and loss of life. The situation remains tense, and the authorities are working to ensure that peace and order are restored in the region.