Manipur police warns of central forces intervention amid kidnapping fallout, tensions escalate

IMPHAL: A day after Manipur police reportedly filed a case under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act against militants, who had kidnapped a senior police officer and his escort in Imphal West district, a police spokesperson cautioned about summoning central forces.

The Inspector General of Manipur police, IK Muivah, stated that if civil police face hindrance from civil society organizations and the public, calling in central forces becomes necessary, potentially leading to the re-imposition of the Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA).

Manipur's decision to maintain 'disturbed areas' status in Hill areas but not in Valley areas has been reiterated.

The recent abduction of Moirangthem Amit Singh, an additional superintendent of police, and vandalism at his residence by suspected members of the radical Meitei group Arambai Tenggol has further escalated tensions.

Manipur police, while condemning the attack, emphasized their neutrality and warned against targeting officers or units through social media.

Additionally, some Manipur police commandos staged an "arms down" protest in various valley districts in response to the incident.