Security beefed-up along Indo-Myanmar border: CM
Source: Chronicle News Service
Imphal, November 22 2023:
Barring some incidents, normalcy has returned in.
the state while security deployment along Indo-Myanmar international has been enhanced in view of the gun-fight between the Junta government and rebels in neighbouring Myanmar, stated chief minister N Biren Singh.
Responding to a query raised by media persons on the sidelines of premiere of Rupmahal Theatre's new play 'Iningthou Kulachandra', chief minister Biren said that we should not get involved in violence and rather make collective efforts to bring back peace and normalcy in the state.
Barring some incidents, there is near complete peace in the state since the past few months.
In an incident that occurred some days back, two people including an IRB soldier were killed in Haraothel area under Kangpokpi district and the incident was unfortunate and heart breaking one, Biren said, while condemning the incident.
He also said that the police department has started investigation into the incident and combing operation in Haraothel area began to nab the culprits involved in the killing.
When asked about measures being taken up along international border between India and Myanmar in view of intense fight between the military Junta and armed rebels, N Biren responded that security deployment along the international border has been intensified and security forces are keeping strict vigil along the international border.
He said that BSF and CRPF have been deployed along the international border apart from Assam Rifles and state force while government is monitoring the situation in the neighbouring country.
"Normalcy has been restored in many parts of the state in the past one two months except for some one-two incidents...
We should not indulge in crime and together we should try to restore peace and normalcy in Manipur," he told journalists on Wednesday.
Further reflecting on the present situation in the state, the chief minister said that some groups who have been let free by politicians, bureaucrats and security forces are behind the present violence and they have been planning for it for the past 10/20 years.
The challenges being posed by these groups cannot be fought with mere voice but need brain, Biren said, adding that he had predicted the present violence around 10 years back and even tweeted on social media platforms regarding their preparation.
"However, my prediction was assumed as a joke and even branded me as a living Tikendrajit during that time," Biren recounted.
While urging all to face challenges and hardships being faced today for a bright and strong future, N Biren Singh reassured the people that there will be no compromise from his part on the issue of protecting and safeguarding integrity of the state.
He also assured that Rupmahal Theatre located along BT road in the heart of Imphal city will be reconstructed with all modern facilities at a cost of Rs 4 crore.
The chief minister gave the assurance after witnessing pitiable condition of the old hall of Rupmahal Theatre while attending premiere of the theatre group's 246th stage play 'Iningthou Kulachandra' , a production under Chief Ministergi Artistesinggi Tengbang (CMAT).
Addressing the gathering, CM Biren highlighted the historical importance of Rupmahal Theatre, which was established in 1943 while maintaining that theatre has a big role to play in bringing a change in the society.
He said that CMAT was launched to support artistes in view of state's prowess and talent in the fields of art, culture and sports.
He also highlighted the importance of promoting and encouraging Thang-Ta amongst the younger generation as this traditional martial arts form not only keeps a person physically fit but also instils discipline.
Expressing hope that the play 'Iningthou Kulachandra' will educate the present and future generations about Maharaja Kulachandra's spirit and sacrifices, N Biren Singh said that there seems to be loss of nationalistic feeling and respect for elders among the present generation and this is quite concerning.
According to CM Biren, he was personally struck by certain deeds of Maharaja Kulachandra and accordingly wanted to highlight the late king's story and sacrifices.
He also said that the play will give message of courage and sacrifices of great leaders of the land to younger generation and Rupmahal Theatre was handed the responsibility of producing the play on Maharaja Kulachandra keeping this mind.
The chief minister assured reconstruction of the theatre hall through sanctioning half the project amount this year and the remaining next year.
Further highlighting the significance and importance of remembering historical events through different media, the chief minister said a film is being made on 'Seven Years Devastation' and the stories of heroes like Maharaja Gambhir Singh, Maharaja Nar Singh and Heerachandra would be brought to life in this film.
Minister Heikham Dingo and Rupmahal Theatre secretary Hidangmayum Achouba Sharma also attended premiere of the play directed by Bishwamitra.