Manipur Violence: Shoot-at-sight orders issued, concerns voiced by leaders, Mary Kom voices concern

Manipur has been hit by a wave of violent protests over the inclusion of the Meitei community in the Scheduled Tribes (ST) category, leading to shoot-at-sight orders being issued by the state government to maintain public order and tranquility.

The violence broke out during a 'tribal solidarity march' organized by the All Tribal Student Union Manipur (ATSUM) on May 3, 2023. The clashes resulted in the Indian Army and paramilitary forces being deployed to control the situation, and over 7,500 civilians have been evacuated so far.

The government order authorizes all District Magistrates, Sub- Divisional Magistrates and all Executive Magistrates/ Special Executive Magistrates to issue Shoot at sight orders in extreme cases whereby all forms of persuasion, warning, and reasonable force had been exhausted to control law and order situations.

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi expressed concerns over the 'deteriorating law and order' situation in Manipur and called on Prime Minister Narendra Modi to restore peace and normalcy in the state. The Congress President, Mallikarjun Kharge, hit out at the BJP, holding it responsible for the situation, which he said resulted from its "politics of hate, division, and its greed for power."

According to other communities, this move in favour of the Meiteis - who account for around 53 per cent of the population - will deny them access to government jobs and admission to educational institutions. The violent protests have disrupted normal life in the state, and the ban on mobile internet services has added to the woes of the people.

The situation remains tense, with the authorities taking all necessary measures to maintain law and order.