Priyanka Tiwari
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The Churachandpur administration in Manipur imposed prohibitory orders across the district on Monday following violent clashes between the Hmar and Zomi communities. The decision came a day after a Hmar tribal leader was assaulted, prompting demands for the identification and arrest of the perpetrators, officials said.
As per the additional district magistrate, the restrictions were enforced under Section 163 of the BNSS 2023. The order cited a "serious apprehension of a breach of law and order," which could disturb peace, threaten communal harmony, and lead to potential harm to life and public property.
Bans on Gatherings and Weapons Imposed
To prevent further escalation, the authorities banned unauthorized processions and unlawful assemblies of five or more people. The carrying of weapons, including sticks, rods, and stones, was strictly prohibited.
Throughout Monday, protestors attempted to enforce a shutdown by urging businesses to close immediately. Groups of men carrying sticks patrolled the streets, while clashes between the two communities led to incidents of stone pelting in multiple areas of the district headquarters. Security forces intervened by firing shots in the air to disperse the violent mobs.
Attack on Tribal Leader Richard Hmar Sparks Tensions
Officials reported that Richard Hmar, general secretary of Hmar Inpui—one of the leading tribal organizations—was attacked by a group of men inside the VK Montessori complex at Zenhang Lamka around 7:30 PM on Sunday.
Hmar Inpui strongly condemned the attack and issued a statement demanding immediate action against those responsible. The organization warned that if justice was not served, it would "take its own course of action."
Sources suggested that the violence stemmed from an altercation after Richard Hmar’s vehicle nearly collided with a two-wheeler rider. The minor dispute escalated into physical assault, triggering tensions between the communities.
District Administration Urges Calm and Peaceful Resolution
In response to the rising tensions, Deputy Commissioner Dharun Kumar S reassured the public that necessary actions were being taken to de-escalate the situation. He called for calm and encouraged dialogue between community members.
Kumar stated, "Our attention has been drawn to incidents of unrest that threaten the peaceful coexistence of our citizens." He urged residents to uphold harmony, regardless of their backgrounds or beliefs, and reaffirmed the district administration’s commitment to enforcing law and order.
The administration also warned against spreading unverified information, advising people to seek clarifications from local authorities or community leaders instead of relying on rumors.
Appeal for Dialogue and Peace
Calling upon community leaders to engage in constructive discussions, Kumar highlighted Churachandpur’s history of diversity and unity. He emphasized the importance of finding common ground to restore stability in the region.
As security forces remain deployed and prohibitory orders continue to be in effect, authorities have urged residents to remain peaceful and cooperative to prevent further conflicts.
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