Despite the deployment of extensive security forces, Manipur remains gripped by unrest. The disappearance of a Meitei man and the recent abduction of a doctor underscore the fragile state of law and order. Protests and roadblocks have erupted, with villagers demanding swift action from authorities.
By PC Bureau
Despite the deployment of tens of thousands of security personnel, Manipur remains on edge, plagued by consecutive incidents of abductions and disappearances.
Four days after armed Meitei men abducted a doctor from Imphal for ransom, a 56-year-old Meitei man, Laishram Kamalbabu Singh, was reported missing on Monday evening from Imphal West district.
Singh, a resident of Loitang Khunou village, was last seen heading to Leimakhong military station, where he worked as a casual laborer. However, he failed to report to the Army station in Kangpokpi, and his phone has been switched off since he left home.
Authorities have launched a joint search operation involving the Army and Manipur Police to locate Singh. His family revealed that he regularly undertook various unskilled jobs at Leimakhong, an area now surrounded by Kuki-Zo tribal-dominated regions. Since the outbreak of ethnic violence in May, many Meitei residents have fled these areas.
In response to Singh’s disappearance, a large group of villagers from Loitang Khunou attempted to reach Leimakhong to search for him but were intercepted by security forces near Kanto Sabal to prevent further escalation. Angered by the blockade, the villagers staged a protest, blocking the road leading to the Army’s 57th Mountain Division headquarters.
While no new incidents of violence have been reported in the days following the Jiribam mob violence on November 17, tensions remain high. In light of the unrest, the Education Department has closed all schools and universities in the five valley districts of Imphal West, Imphal East, Thoubal, Bishnupur, and Kakching until Tuesday to ensure the safety of students and staff.
Meanwhile, the suspension of mobile internet and data services has been extended until November 27 across nine districts, including the troubled Jiribam district. The affected districts span both valley and hill regions, encompassing Imphal West, Imphal East, Bishnupur, Thoubal, Kakching, Kangpokpi, Churachandpur, Jiribam, and Pherzawl.
Adding to the chaos, police recently rescued Dr. Kh Nabakeshore, a medical officer abducted by armed Meitei individuals on November 22 from Langthabal Kunja Awang Leikai in Imphal West. The kidnappers had demanded a ransom and issued threats against his life. The police operation resulted in the arrest of five suspects and the seizure of arms and ammunition.
While security forces remain heavily deployed, the continuing violence, abductions, and public unrest highlight the fragile and volatile state of affairs in Manipur.
