Manipur violence: Government announces temporary curfew relaxation

Manipur violence: The state of Manipur has endured a violent phase this past week where civilians and armed personnel have all suffered heavy casualties. The Indian Army and paramilitary were eventually deployed, and a heavy curfew was imposed in the state in the last few hours. However, this curfew has been lightened for a few hours as per instructions from the Manipur government, ANI reported. A total of eleven districts have been allowed two hours of curfew reduction, which indicates a slight improvement in the situation.   

While the curfew will be relaxed for two hours on the western side of the state capital Imphal, east Imphal has been granted three hours of curfew relaxation. Although heavy security has ensured that there are no further cases of arson, property damage or loss of life, the situation continues to remain fragile in the state. The violence erupted in Manipur after the Metei community was granted the Scheduled Tribe (ST) status despite being a majority community. Government officials are yet to reveal how long the curfew will remain in the state. 

Image courtesy: ANI