Stop Blocking Roads, Don't Violate Curfew: Manipur Chief Minister

Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh today appealed for peace as ethnic violence rages for nearly a month in the northeastern state. Pointing to the hardships faced by the civilians, he urged the people of his state not to block roads or violate curfews.

He also called for surrendering the weapons looted from security personnel and warned of legal action if anyone is found with unauthorised weapons.

"In order to save lives and property of innocent civilians, and to assuage the hardship faced in relief camps, I appeal to the people of Manipur not to cause roadblocks and hindrances on free movement of security personnel and relief material," he said.

The Chief Minister said the violating of curfews and roads blockages are leading to hardships to the people.

"Such roadblocks are increasing the hardship of our already traumatized people in relief camps, including pregnant women and young children by halting movement of health personnel, medicine, food, milk and water meant for them," he said.

The Chief Minister's appeal comes amid central and state efforts to quell the violence that broke out between the Meiteis and the Kukis on May 3.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah, who is in Manipur to take stock of the situation, has visited the violence-hit districts and met security officials and the leaders of the civil society organisations.

Mr Shah visited Churachandpur yesterday and today he went to Tengnoupal and Kangpokpi districts. He also visited two relief camps in state capital Imphal and Kangpokpi today.

Meanwhile, the Union Health Ministry has deputed six teams of four doctors each to support the public health efforts in Manipur.

At least 80 people have died and hundreds injured in the ongoing month-long violence. The centre has announced Rs 10 lakh compensation for the victims' families.