Guwahati: Rumors circulating about potential protests targeting the Food Corporation of India (FCI) godown in Manipur‘s Churachandpur district have prompted authorities to enhance security measures in the area.
Following the dissemination of these rumors, sources indicate that the Assam Rifles have established a camp at the FCI campus at Tualnuam in Churachandpur, Manipur, to forestall any potential disturbances.
Reports suggest that a contingent of 35 Assam Rifles personnel is currently stationed to safeguard the FCI godown.
In response to the escalating tensions, FCI authorities have ceased rice shipments to the godown, apprehensive of a possible attack.
Assam Rifles have established a camp at the FCI campus at Tualnuam in Churachandpur.
“FCI has refrained from transporting rice to the godown for over a week now. Consequently, there has been a 50% decline in food grain stocks, compared to its total capacity,” said an FCI official on condition of anonymity. The FCI godown at Tualnuam has a 500 MT food storage capacity.
Contrary to the rumors, residents, predominantly from the Kuki Zo community, dismiss the likelihood of such an assault.
“Why would anyone resort to such senseless violence? It would only exacerbate their hardships. Burning down the FCI godown would only precipitate a food crisis, given its crucial role in supplying food grains to the local populace,” said a local on the condition of anonymity.
The tensions in the region come on the heels of a violent incident on February 15, wherein three persons lost their lives and over 30 sustained injuries during an attempted attack on the Churachandpur SP office.
The unrest ensued following the suspension of a police constable, allegedly seen in a video alongside armed individuals.
According to Manipur Police, a crowd of around 300 to 400 people attempted to breach the premises of the SP office, resorting to stone-pelting in their endeavors.