Amidst the ongoing violence, the Indian Army Chief acknowledges the impact of instability in neighboring Myanmar, including the influx of refugees and occasional cross-border movements.
BY PC Bureau
New Delhi:
Indian Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi on Monday acknowledged the complex challenges facing security forces in Manipur, particularly the deep-rooted tribal divisions and the fragmented state of the local police force.
Speaking at the Army’s annual press conference, General Dwivedi highlighted that while coordination among security agencies is ongoing, the situation is severely hampered by the strong tribal affiliations within the state. He pointed out that the violence that erupted in May 2023 has led to a significant separation of the police force along ethnic lines, with officers largely confined to their own communities.
“The DGP had ordered that officers should be assigned to stations within their own community areas to ensure that they could perform their duties without obstacles,” General Dwivedi explained.
He emphasized that the coordination on the ground has been primarily driven by central forces such as the Indian Army, Assam Rifles, and other CAPFs. “These agencies have been able to provide effective coordination,” he stated.
External Influences:
General Dwivedi also acknowledged the potential influence of external factors, particularly the ongoing instability in neighboring Myanmar. He noted that the influx of refugees and occasional cross-border movements by Myanmar soldiers have added another layer of complexity to the situation.
“We are interacting with each other in due harmony and making sure that the exchange of information and support which is required in terms of intelligence is provided from both the sides,” he said, referring to ongoing cooperation with the Myanmar Army.
Path to Reconciliation:
Despite the challenges, General Dwivedi expressed optimism regarding the appointment of the new Governor, former Home Secretary Ajay Bhalla. He believes that Bhalla’s leadership will play a crucial role in fostering reconciliation efforts within the state.
The Army Chief reiterated the importance of a unified approach to restoring peace and stability in Manipur. The continued support and coordination of central forces, along with the efforts of the state government, will be crucial in addressing these challenges and ensuring the return of normalcy to the region.
