Eight suspended in CCpur incident
Source: Chronicle News Service

Imphal, February 24 2024: The state government has been closely monitoring the situation with a firm commitment to restoring peace and normalcy, and following preliminary evidences, the government suspended seven officers from various communities in Imphal and one from Churachandpur district in relation with the February 15 incident in Churachandpur.

The home department, in an official statement issued on Saturday, said that the violent incident erupted on February 15 in Churachandpur, when a mob of approximately 800 to 1000 individuals, reportedly instigated by anti-social elements, vandalised and set fire to the offices of the DC and SP in Churachandpur.

Twelve trucks and buses parked in the office complex, two of which were carrying relief material for camps in Churachandpur district, were also destroyed or burned.

Additionally, the mob torched the official residence of the DC, Churachandpur, and disrespected the National Flag.

Tragically, two individuals lost their lives, and one security personnel was injured during the incident.

Subsequent to the incident, the 'Indigenous Tribal Leaders' Forum (ITLF),' self-pro-claimed as the apex body of all tribal leaders of the Kuki-Zo community, issued multiple press releases and notices between February 15 and 19, issuing direct threats against the DC and SP of Churachandpur district, along with an ultimatum for them to vacate the district and close government offices.

Despite the volatile conditions, the government through DCs and SPs has been tirelessly working for the welfare of displaced persons since May 3 last year.

Multiple welfare measures have been initiated with assistance from the Ministry of Home Affairs, ensuring timely relief material distribution to the needy.

However, accusations have arisen from Churachandpur district regarding delays in relief material disbursement post the February 15 incident.

Refuting the allegation, the statement clarified that the DC of Churachandpur has consistently ensured the timely release of relief materials such as rice, dal, vegetables, and other consumables through local CSOs, with the last release occurring on February 12 and 13, wherein about 50,000 kg of rice, 245 bags of Dal, 55 bags of sugar and other consumables such as vegetables, cooking oil, eggs, tea leaf and spices were distributed.

It may be noted that post the unfortunate incident of February 15, the DC office (including the office of relief in-charge) and DC's official residence was ransacked and burnt, including all the official records/documents kept therein.

Even the bank documents were destroyed in the said incident.

Furthermore, the personal threats issued to the DC and SP have caused significant mental anguish, not only to the officers in Churachandpur but to the entire team tirelessly working for the welfare of displaced persons across the state.

The Government has initiated the reconstruction process for the damaged or lost documents and remains committed to ensuring timely relief to all affected individuals.

An appeal was also made to all citizens to support the district administration in its efforts to assist displaced persons during this challenging time.

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