Manipur violence: Miscreants pull down national flag in Churachandpur district

Indian National Flag was forcibly removed from government buildings in Churachandpur, Manipur, accompanied by threats that no Indian flag should fly within the district, marking a troubling escalation of tensions in the region. The brazen act of vandalism targeted key administrative centers, with the Deputy Commissioner and Superintendent of Police offices set ablaze by unidentified miscreants.

Meanwhile , three protestors lost their lives and over 30 others sustained injuries during a demonstration in Churachandpur. The protest, which spiraled into violence was sparked by the suspension of a police head constable allegedly involved in firing on innocent civilians in collusion with armed militants.

According to reports from the Manipur police, A mob attempted to storm the Churachandpur SP office in Manipur on Thursday night, hours after a head constable of the district police was suspended after he was allegedly seen with armed men in a video grab, an official said.

Taking to X, Manipur Police said, "A mob numbering approximately 300-400 attempted to storm the office of SP CCP today, pelting stone, etc. The SF (security forces) including RAF is responding appropriately by firing tear gas shell to control the situation. Things are under watch."

Head constable Siamlalpaul was kept "under suspension with immediate effect until further orders" by Churachandpur SP Shivanand Surve after a video of him with "armed men" and "sitting together with village volunteers" went viral on social media.

meanwhile , In response to recent incidents of violence and arson reported in Churachandpur District, the Government of Manipur has taken decisive action to maintain public safety and prevent further unrest.

Citing concerns over the potential misuse of social media platforms to escalate tensions, the State Government has ordered the temporary suspension of mobile internet and data services, including services through VPN, across the entire revenue jurisdiction of Churachandpur District. The suspension will be in effect for a period of five days, commencing immediately from 1:40 A.M. on February 16, 2024.

The decision, made under Rule 2 of the Temporary Suspension of Telecom Services (Public Emergency or Public Safety) Rules, 2017, comes amidst fears of widespread disturbances to public tranquillity and communal harmony. The government aims to prevent the transmission of inflammatory material and false rumors that could exacerbate the current volatile law and order situation.

"This measure is a preventive and precautionary step to safeguard the lives and properties of the citizens," stated a spokesperson from the Home Department. "The government is committed to restoring peace and ensuring the safety of all residents in Churachandpur District."