Judicial panel, CBI to probe Manipur riot cases: Shah

Ethnic riots erupted in different parts of Manipur on May 3, following clashes between two groups, Meitei and Kuki, over the issue of reservation

NEW DELHI | Updated: 01 June, 2023 1:54 pm IST
Home minister Amit Shah at a relief camp in Manipur.

NEW DELHI: The recent ethnic clashes that killed more than 71 people and displaced thousands in Manipur will be investigated by a high-level judicial commission as well as the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), Union home minister Amit Shah announced on Thursday.

Addressing a news conference in Imphal, Shah said that a judicial commission led by a retired high court judge will investigate the overall riots in the state while the CBI will specifically focus on five cases of rioting and a separate case of conspiracy.

Ethnic riots erupted in different parts of Manipur on May 3, following clashes between two groups, Meitei and Kuki, over the issue of reservation. The clashes resulted in the loss of over 71 lives and left hundreds injured.

During his four-day visit to the state, the home minister reviewed the law and order situation, engaged with members of both communities to restore peace, and held an all-party meeting to restore normalcy.

ALSO READ: Union Health ministry deploys teams of doctors for riot-hit Manipur

Minister Shah also announced the formation of a Peace Committee under the leadership of the governor consisting of sportsmen, politicians, celebrities, and representatives from various civil society organizations in the state.

Addressing the relief and rehabilitation of those affected by the riots, Shah stated that the state and Central governments will provide ₹5 lakh each (a total of ₹10 lakh) to the kin of the deceased in the Manipur riots. Financial relief will also be given to the injured individuals and those who have suffered property losses.

He once again urged the people of Manipur not to believe in rumors, stating, “I again appeal to the people of Manipur not to believe in rumors. We have provided toll-free numbers for them to call. The incident occurred due to misunderstandings that arose between the communities after a court decision.”

Shah also mentioned that 30,000 metric tonnes of rice will be provided to affected families, along with affordable vegetables, fuel, and an adequate supply of crops. Additionally, at least 15 petrol pumps will remain open 24/7, and helicopter services will be available to transport people from hilly areas.

ALSO READ: Amit Shah meets delegations of Kukis, Meiteis in riot-hit Manipur

To ensure proper care for the injured and those residing in shelter homes, eight teams of doctors have been deployed, with three teams already on site and five more expected to arrive soon, according to Shah.

The minister emphasized that the borders shared between Manipur and Myanmar will be closely guarded by security personnel. Individuals entering India or traveling to Myanmar will be required to provide their biometrics and hand impressions.

Shah further requested individuals in possession of weapons to surrender them to the police. Security forces will conduct search operations, and those found with illegal weapons will face strict action.

To coordinate the efforts of various agencies working towards restoring peace in the state, the home ministry has appointed retired 1993-batch IPS officer Kuldeep Singh as an advisor. Singh will play a crucial role in coordinating the activities of various agencies working to bring back normalcy in Manipur.

Additionally, the home ministry has appointed 1993-batch IPS officer Rajiv Singh as the new director general of police (DGP), Manipur.

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