New Delhi, July 24, 2023: Security has been beefed up across Mizoram in anticipation of state-wide protests organized by Mizo organizations in solidarity with the Zo ethnic people in strife-torn Manipur.
The demonstrations come in the wake of reports of Meiteis leaving the state after a viral video showing two women being paraded naked. Police sources reported that 78 people flew to Manipur on Sunday via three flights, following 65 individuals who traveled on Saturday.
It remains unclear how many were regular passengers and how many left out of fear, as these were commercial flights. Additionally, 41 Meitei people left Mizoram for Assam’s Cachar district, as per the ex-militants’ group’s advisory to the community to vacate the state.
In response to the escalating situation, the NGO Co-Ordination Committee, comprising five major civil society organizations, is set to stage demonstrations in various Mizoram regions on Tuesday to extend their support to the Zo ethnic people in Manipur. In preparation, Mizoram’s Director-General of Police, Anil Shukla, conducted a high-level meeting to assess security arrangements and ensure the safety of Meitei people in the state.
DGP Shukla directed police officers to deploy adequate forces, patrol vulnerable areas, and maintain vigilance to prevent any untoward incidents. In case of emergencies, a sufficient number of reserve forces with vehicles and officers will be readily available for swift deployment.
The state police, along with administrative officials, are closely monitoring the situation. They are working to protect Manipuri people residing in Mizoram and uphold communal harmony. The police urged civil society organizations, NGOs, and the public to assist in maintaining peace and tranquility.
The Mizoram Home Secretary, H Lalengmawia, held a meeting with leaders of the Meitei community, providing reassurance of their safety and security. Additionally, the Peace Accord MNF Returnees’ Association clarified that their earlier statement was misconstrued. The advisory was issued to exercise caution in light of public sentiments regarding the ongoing ethnic conflict in Manipur.
As tensions remain high, the Mizoram authorities are leaving no stone unturned to ensure the safety of all citizens and to uphold communal harmony during this sensitive period.
