Alina
Moreh Violence, Manipur Conflict
Second Commando Fatality Amidst Intense Attack
In a tragic development, a second Manipur Police commando lost his life in the ongoing violence in Moreh, a crucial trading town situated near the Myanmar border. The incident, marked by heavy gunfire and the use of rocket-propelled grenades (RPGs), has also left two other commandos critically injured, necessitating their airlift to Imphal for urgent medical attention.
Casualties and Identity
The fallen commando, identified as Takhellambam Saileshwore, succumbed to injuries on Wednesday, following the earlier demise of 32-year-old Wangkhem Somorjit Meetei. The situation remains tense as the security forces engage with armed assailants.
Violent Confrontation Unfolds
The commandos faced a barrage of gunfire this morning, with the attackers deploying RPGs. Despite returning fire effectively, the presence of protesters escalated the volatility. Additionally, an elderly woman sustained injuries under unclear circumstances during the skirmish.
Backlash from Recent Arrests
This wave of violence comes approximately 48 hours after the arrest of two Kuki tribals linked to the October killing of police officer Chingtham Anand Kumar. The arrests triggered massive protests by Kuki-Zo groups, alleging police aggression against their community. The demand for the replacement of state security personnel by central forces intensifies amidst rising tensions.
Civil Unrest and Cross-Border Cooperation
Moreh witnessed widespread protests by Kuki tribes, demanding the release of the arrested individuals, one of whom is affiliated with the Bharatiya Janata Party. The unrest resulted in damage to several houses and two schools, prompting an unexpected gesture of goodwill. A fire engine from Myanmar crossed the border to assist in extinguishing the fires, showcasing cross-border cooperation amidst the turmoil.
The Free Movement Regime and its Future
The Free Movement Regime (FMR), in place since 1970 and reinstated by the Narendra Modi government in 2016, allowed easier border crossings for hill tribe members between India and Myanmar. However, amidst escalating ethnic violence and calls for increased border security, a senior government official disclosed plans to scrap the FMR. The proposal includes the construction of a fence by 2029, raising concerns about potential impacts on cross-border relations.
Lingering Tensions and Political Dynamics
Tensions between the Kuki tribes and Meiteis have persisted for eight months, resulting in over 180 casualties. Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh, a vocal critic of the FMR, has advocated for its abolition and the fortification of the border. The state’s assertion of quelling an insurgent uprising in Moreh is countered by Kuki claims of territorial occupation.
