Manipur Home Minister Govindas Konthoujam appealed to the public at a press conference on Wednesday to avoid spreading misinformation amid rising unrest in Bishnupur district.
The conference at the Minister’s Block, New Secretariat, Mantripukhri, Imphal West, was chaired by Govindas and attended by Thounaojam Basanta Kumar, MLA for Nambol; Tongbram Robindro, MLA for Thanga; and Irengbam Nalini Devi, MLA for Oinam.
Miscommunication
Govindas detailed how a joint CISF, Assam Rifles, and state forces team arrested drug peddler Sabhir Ahmad at Tulihal Airport, Imphal, around 10:30 am. During questioning, he confessed to stashing more drugs and weapons in Kwakta, Bishnupur.
Assam Rifles personnel in plain clothes escorted him there, but local women frisking vehicles halted them, sparking confusion over the vehicle’s occupants. “This miscommunication fuelled suspicion, leading to rapid escalation, violence, attacks, injuries, and the vehicle being torched,” Govindas said.
Security forces, including commandos, later rescued people with local volunteers’ aid.
Security Response Underway
Deployments of state forces, central units, and army are now in place, with combing operations targeting armed elements. “Authorities will swiftly identify and act against those responsible,” Govindas assured.
He urged restraint, noting MLAs from Moirang and Kumbi constituencies are engaged, and a Chief Minister meeting is planned. “Stay calm; do not amplify panic through rumours,” he stressed.