State Will Strike Back Hard: Manipur Govt Warns Unlawful Groups After Sangai Festival Ultimatum
Manipur cracks down hard on banned groups threatening citizens.
In a stern and uncompromising message, the Manipur government has declared that any individual or banned organisation attempting to disturb the fragile peace in the state through intimidation or unlawful decrees will face the full wrath of the law, warning that such actions constitute a direct assault on the state and its people.
The government categorically stated that no entity—whether a proscribed outfit or otherwise—possesses the authority to issue threats, impose punishments, or restrict legitimate cultural, economic, or artistic activities of law-abiding citizens. It emphasised that every act of coercion or endangerment will be treated as an offence against the state itself, with strict prosecution promised without exception.
The strong warning comes in direct response to a joint ultimatum issued two days ago by five banned underground organisations, which demanded a public apology by December 10 from individuals and organisations that participated in the recently concluded Sangai Festival. The groups had condemned the tourism event as insensitive, given that thousands of internally displaced persons continue to endure difficult conditions in relief camps amid the ongoing ethnic conflict.
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The festival had already sparked anger among displaced communities, who organised protest marches and attempted to return to their abandoned homes in Kuki-dominated areas, arguing that the successful conduct of the event signalled a return of normalcy. Security forces, however, prevented these attempts in order to avoid potential confrontation, highlighting the continuing volatility on the ground.
Reiterating its commitment to restoring order and development, the government urged citizens to remain united against unlawful elements and to immediately report threats, extortion, or suspicious activities to the nearest police station or through the dedicated anti-extortion cell. Assuring swift punitive action and complete confidentiality for informants, the state administration made it clear that the era of impunity for those who terrorise innocent people is over.
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