Amidst ongoing unrest in Manipur, the state government has taken several steps to try and restore peace. On Tuesday, all government, aided, and private colleges were ordered to remain closed until September 12. This decision was announced by the Higher and Technical Education Department of Manipur, citing the need to maintain order and safety. The order, signed by Joint Secretary Laishram Dolie Devi, stated that all colleges in the state would be shut on Wednesday, September 11, and Thursday, September 12.
Meanwhile, the Governor of Manipur, Lakshman Prasad Acharya, expressed deep concern over the fresh incidents of violence and appealed for peace. In an official statement, he stressed that societal development relies on peace and cooperation. He acknowledged that the state, known as the “land of jewels”, has faced a period of turmoil, with recent events hindering efforts to restore peace and normalcy.
Governor Acharya also mentioned that he has been actively engaging with public leaders and students to promote peace in the state. He emphasized that violence is not a solution and called for everyone to contribute towards overcoming the current challenges.
In addition to the college closures, the state government has imposed a ban on internet services in Manipur, starting on Tuesday. This move aims to curb the spread of misinformation and false rumors circulating on social media platforms such as WhatsApp, Facebook, Instagram, and X. The internet ban is set to continue until September 15.
The Indian Army, Assam Rifles, and other security forces have been conducting joint operations across multiple districts in Manipur to recover weapons and restore normalcy. These operations, which began in the first week of September 2024, have resulted in the significant recovery of arms, ammunition, and other military supplies. These successful operations highlight the effectiveness of coordinated efforts by the security forces.
As Manipur continues to face this period of unrest, the state government’s actions and the Governor’s call for peace highlight the urgency of the situation. The state government’s focus on restoring order and the security forces’ ongoing operations are crucial in working towards a peaceful resolution.