Manipur Tightens Farm Security After Fresh Attacks Amid Growing Cultivation Tensions

Imphal, July 3: Security forces in Manipur have intensified taking up measures across farming zones following recent attacks on farmers, as authorities work to prevent further violence during the ongoing cultivation season.

The Manipur Police Control Room on Thursday said that additional forces have been stationed in both hill and valley regions to ensure the safety of farmers, particularly in sensitive and conflict-prone areas.

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The move follows a spike in violence, including an incident on June 19 in which a 60-year-old Meitei farmer was shot while working in a paddy field at Phubala in Bishnupur district. Hours later, a Kuki woman was killed in an alleged crossfire in Chingphei, Churachandpur district.

Amid the tension, a combined headquarters meeting was held on June 28, chaired by the Manipur security advisor and attended by the chief secretary, the DGP, and top officials from all security forces. The meeting reviewed existing security protocols and called for closer coordination between state and central forces.

“Manipur Police personnel, alongside central security forces, have been deployed in vulnerable farming areas,” said the police control room. Re-deployments were made particularly in and around Phubala to reinforce existing security.

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District Superintendents of Police have been directed to implement enhanced protocols, while senior officers are visiting high-risk zones to supervise on-ground arrangements. Vulnerable farmlands are being mapped for targeted surveillance and protection.

Combing operations are underway in fringe and interior hill areas to flush out armed elements. Authorities have also activated flying squads and Quick Reaction Teams (QRTs) to provide rapid response if needed.

Local administrations have begun holding coordination meetings with residents to discuss farming hours and precautionary measures. Farmers have been urged to inform police or nearby forces before entering fields in volatile zones.

(Newmai News Network)