Manipur DGP Urges Cooperation to Reduce Weaponisation, Restore Normalcy

GG News Bureau
Imphal, 19th Oct. In a press briefing on Saturday, Manipur’s Director General of Police (DGP) Rajiv Singh emphasized that the state police are working tirelessly to recover arms looted from security forces amid ongoing tensions. Speaking on the sidelines of the 133rd Manipur Police Raising Day, Singh highlighted that reducing the “weaponisation of society” is crucial for restoring normalcy.

Singh acknowledged the complexity of the current situation but asserted that conditions in Manipur have improved over the past year and a half. “Violence, deaths, and injuries have decreased, although there are still sporadic incidents of firing and arson. We are on high alert to prevent escalation,” he stated.

The DGP appealed for public cooperation in returning weapons to security forces, which are being actively recovered through operations. He called on the community to help by reporting any knowledge of the whereabouts of these arms.

“The only solution to our problems is through peaceful dialogue,” Singh urged, asking residents from both sides of the conflict to engage in discussions. He described the Manipur Police as a “very civilian-friendly force” and stressed that security operations are conducted with caution to avoid harm to innocent civilians.

Since the outbreak of ethnic clashes between the Meitei and Kuki communities in May 2023, over 200 lives have been lost, and thousands have been displaced. The DGP reiterated the importance of community cooperation in navigating these challenging times and restoring peace in the region.