Imphal: Manipur continues to face a significant security challenge, with a shortfall of over 7,000 personnel required to maintain law and order despite the deployment of more than 34,000 security personnel, Home Minister Govindas Konthoujam said on Sunday.
Addressing a press conference in Imphal, the minister said the ongoing ethnic tensions have created a fragile security environment, necessitating additional and specialised forces.
He informed that out of 272 companies of the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) deployed across the state, 88 companies have already been withdrawn for election duties in West Bengal, with another 15 companies scheduled to be pulled out, taking the total number of withdrawn units to 103.
However, following a request by the state government to the Union Home Ministry, 184 companies of CAPF will continue to remain deployed in Manipur to maintain stability, he added.
The Home Minister also said the state is in the process of augmenting its security infrastructure by introducing mine-protected vehicles and bullet-proof vehicles to enhance civilian safety.
Responding to questions on recent incidents in Ukhrul and Tronglaobi, Konthoujam appealed for public cooperation. “We appeal to all communities to cooperate with the government. Our commitment is to protect the life and property of every citizen. Following a period of President’s Rule, this government, though new in its tenure, is dedicated to restoring peace and tranquillity. We urge the public to give us some time,” he said.