CM points to possible use of sophisticated guns
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, March 04 2024: Chief Minister N Biren has categorically stated that there are strong indications of Kuki militants using imported sophisticated weapons in attacking Meitei villages.

The Chief Minister made this statement on the floor of the State Assembly today in response to a query raised by Opposition MLA K Ranjit on the weapons used by Kuki militants in the course of the violent conflict which erupted on May 3, 2023 .

N Biren stated that many cases where Kuki militants were suspected to have used imported sophisticated weapons have been handed over to the NIA or CBI which the State police have been handling.

As there are strong indications of Kuki militants using sophisticated weapons, the projectiles have been sent to the forensic laboratory.

Due process has been initiated to send the projectiles fired by Kuki militants at Sugnu to the forensic laboratory.

Reports of the forensic laboratory would be forwarded to the Centre, Biren said during the question hour.

Investigation into the alleged firing of MMG at Sugnu yielded contrasting results.

While some said that it was security forces who fired MMG against militants, others contended that the MMG was fired by militants.

Efforts are on to investigate the matter at the higher level, he said.

Churachandpur DC office could be saved from arson because of retaliatory firing by Central and State forces.

Central forces and State forces are working there collectively and they are fully prepared to face any unwanted situation.

As such, there is very little to be alarmed about, Biren said.

To another query raised by K Ranjit on payment of ex-gratia to the victims of the violence, the Chief Minister informed the House that 221 people including eight under 18 and 20 women have lost their lives.

Out of them, ex-gratias have been paid for 114.The Centre also helped the State Government in paying ex-gratia.

Although the ex-gratia is higher in some special cases, the average rate is Rs 10 lakh per person.

Ex-gratia for late Ngangom Nevy of Sugnu would be released within the next four/five days, Biren said.

To another question raised by Opposition MLA K Meghachandra, the Chief Minister stated that the State Government owes Rs 859.36 crore to the pensioners of the State and the Government has been working to release the same amount by August this year.

The due pension amount was around only Rs 400 crore but it rose to 859.36 crore following the current crisis as security and safety of the State required urgent attention, Biren stated.

To another query of Meghachandra, MAHUD Minister Y Khemchand stated that due process is underway to hold elections to urban local bodies.

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