Manipur govt warns anti-social elements, vows strict action against illegal decrees
Imphal: The Manipur government on Friday warned that anti-social elements attempting to disrupt peace by issuing decrees, threatening, or intimidating law-abiding citizens shall be prosecuted strictly in accordance with the law.
In a communique, Puneet Kumar Goel, Chief Secretary, Government of Manipur, stated that actions have already been initiated against such elements by the Manipur Police.
The statement came a day after security forces and the Manipur Police arrested three active members of the G-5, an alliance of five underground groups.
The arrests were made in connection with threats issued against participants of the Sumang Leela Associations and other performers at the recently concluded Manipur Sangai Festival 2025.
Asserting that any attempt to intimidate or endanger the safety and security of citizens is an act against the State and its people, the Chief Secretary stated that the State reaffirms no individual, group, or organization, whether proscribed or otherwise, has the authority to issue decrees, impose punishments, or restrict lawful cultural, economic, or artistic activities in Manipur.
He appealed to the general public to immediately report any instance of threat, extortion, coercion, or suspicious activity to the nearest police station.
Prompt punitive action will be taken on all credible reports against those threatening the lives and properties of the people of Manipur.
The government had earlier established the Anti-Extortion Cell under the Home Department.
The toll-free number for the Anti-Extortion Cell is 1800 202 3326 and is operational 24×7. The identity of informants will be kept confidential.
Additionally, the G-5, a collective body of five major proscribed outfits, on Wednesday announced a decree, a one-year ban on five Shumang Leela parties from staging performances during the Sangai Festival held from November 21 to 30, 2025.
The ban will be effective from December 10, 2025, to December 10, 2026.