"Manipur situation reaching critical point"
Source: Chronicle News Service

Imphal, August 22 2024: Former Additional Director General (ADG) of the Border Security Force (BSF), PK Mishra, has expressed deep concern over the escalating conflict in the state, and urged the state government to take stronger action to restore order.

In a candid interview with News9 Live, Mishra noted the growing tension in the region, particularly in Jiribam, which he described as the "fulcrum" of the current unrest.

Mishra recalled past demands from the Naga community for the creation of a Greater Nagaland, including areas from Ukhrul, Tamenglong, and parts of Chandel.

He warned that the current situation, which now involves Rongmei Nagas and other smaller Naga tribes, has expanded beyond the earlier Kuki-Meitei conflict, creating a new layer of complexity.

He emphasised that any notion of Manipur losing its territory is unacceptable, drawing a parallel to the hypothetical scenario of Kerala seceding from India.

The former BSF officer was particularly critical of the state government's handling of the situation in Jiribam, which he said requires immediate intervention.

Mishra suggested that if the state government is unable to control the situation with paramilitary forces, the deployment of the army might be necessary.

"Enough is enough", he asserted, noting that the current state of affairs is benefiting militant organisations, contractors, and even some security forces.

Mishra also shed light on the challenges faced by Naga citizens, who are being forced to pay fees of Rs 50 each to travel through Kuki dominated areas like Kangpokpi and Churachandpur.

He expressed frustration that even CRPF convoys are being blocked on the route from Silchar to Imphal, underscoring the severity of the situation.

He urged the chief minister to take immediate action by convening discussions with community leaders, but warned that a heavy-handed approach may be necessary to prevent further deterioration.

Mishra cautioned that failure to act could lead to a scenario reminiscent of Bangladesh.

Mishra further suggested that external forces, including China and Myanmar, are involved in the unrest, potentially supporting the influx of weapons and people into the state.

He did not shy away from implicating internal elements in supporting these activities for personal gain, pointing out that even those within the system might be benefiting from the chaos.

Concluding his remarks, Mishra made it clear that the situation in Manipur is reaching a critical point.

He called on the chief minister and the state government to address the issues with urgency, warning that continued inaction could result in a loss of control over the state.

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