Prohibitory orders imposed in 3 Manipur districts amid student protests
Prohibitory orders were enforced in three Manipur districts following student protests in Imphal Valley calling for peace in the conflict-ridden state. An indefinite curfew was imposed in Imphal East and West districts, restricting people from leaving their homes. Additionally, prohibitory orders under Section 163 (2) of Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023 were enacted in Thoubal.
Why does this story matter?
Manipur has been engulfed in violence since May last year. Initially sparked by ethnic tensions between the majority Meiteis and tribal Kukis, the conflict has deepened into severe divisions within Manipuri society. The unrest has resulted in at least 230 deaths, displaced around 50,000 people, and led to armed militias patrolling the streets. The police are divided along community lines, and many residents are living in constant fear within segregated enclaves.
Curfew imposed amid escalating tensions in Manipur
"Due to the developing law and order situation in the district, earlier orders of curfew relaxation stand cancelled with immediate effect from 11 am of September 10," an order issued by the district magistrate said. "Hence, there is total curfew in Imphal East district with immediate effect until further orders," the order added.
Earlier curfew relaxation lifted
The district magistrate of Imphal West issued a new order stating, "In supersession of all earlier orders, curfew relaxation period for September 10 is hereby lifted with effect from 11am of today." The order also noted, "Restriction on the movement of people outside their respective residences was lifted from September 1 last year." Previously, curfew relaxation for September 10 (Tuesday) had been set from 5:00am to 10:00pm but was overturned by this latest directive.
Essential services to remain open
The order noted that essential services, including media, electricity, court, and health, are exempt from the curfew. This action followed student plans to escalate protests demanding the removal of the Director General of Police and the state's security advisor for their alleged failure to manage law and order. In Thoubal, prohibitory orders banned gatherings of five or more people after police reported that a bullet fired by protesting students struck an officer in the thigh on Monday.
Students give 24-hour deadline to governor
Hundreds of students from various schools and colleges camped overnight at Khwairamband Women Market in Imphal. In their uniforms, the students received assistance from local women shopkeepers in setting up the camps. "We have given a 24-hour deadline for Governor Lakshman Prasad Acharya's response to the six demands we have placed. We will decide our future course of action after the deadline ends," student leader Ch Victor Singh told reporters on Tuesday.
Conflict intensifies in state
On Monday, thousands protested at the Manipur Secretariat and Raj Bhavan, demanding action on recent attacks and the protection of the state's "territorial and administrative integrity." Since September 1, the conflict in the state has intensified, with militants adopting new technologies like drones and rockets alongside ongoing use of rifles and grenades. At least eight persons have died and over 12 injured in a fresh wave of violence.
