CM meets Meira Paibis
Source: Chronicle News Service

Imphal, October 24 2023: Chief minister N Biren on Tuesday discussed ways and means to resolve the crisis and restore peace in the state with Meira Paibi groups from different parts of the state.

Meira Paibi groups from Sugnu, Serou, Kwakeithel and Malom areas attended the meeting held at the CM's secretariat, here, during which possible ways to resolve the crisis and restore peace were explored.

The CM also informed the Meira Paibi activists about the initiatives being taken up by the government with full coordination between state and central security forces.

On the other hand, Meira Paibi Lups urged the CM to officially recognise the task of village volunteer forces so that they could legally protect their villages from aggressors.

According to a Meira Paibi leader from Sugnu area, named, Aheibam Chanthoi, the CM urged the Meira Paibi members to take key role in pacifying the public and let them return to their normal lives while stating that the government is taking every possible measure for bringing the situation under control.

She further conveyed about the CM disclosing that the Central government has full knowledge of involvement of militant groups from foreign countries behind the crisis in the state.

As a result, the Central government is providing full support in flushing out the foreign militant groups from the state while NIA is investigating the crisis and making arrests of key accused, Chanthoi quoted the CM as saying.

Though the Meira Paibis gave patient hearing to the CM's assurances and appeal, they weren't impressed especially as the Kuki militants are indulging in activities akin to preparation for another assault.

Considering the volatile situation, the Meira Paibi Lups appealed to the CM to rec ognise the efforts of village volunteer forces in protecting the peripheral villages.

In response, the CM assured to look into the possibilities of enhancing the strength of VDF and utilising them for the task.

As for the demand for withdrawing Assam Rifles, the CM said that as state force alone cannot face the situation the government is taking up measures to deploy CRPF and BSF personnel for taking up joint task with Assam Rifles.

Biren also told them that some AR posts will be replaced, she added.

Sekmaijin to Serou Apunba Meira Paibi Lup submitted a 10-point memorandum to the CM.

Later, the CM also met Meira Paibi representatives from places stretching from Patsoi to Moidangpok, during which the Meira Paibi Lups made similar appeal for recognising the village volunteer forces officially.

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