IMPHAL: Addressing the gathering at the 132nd Raising Day of Manipur Police, Chief Minister N Biren Singh stressed on the importance of unity and commitment to the nation among police personnel.
Singh, addressing the challenges posed by allegations of police personnel favouring their respective ethnic groups amidst the ongoing strife, made it clear that once individuals join the state police force, they must set aside their ethnic affiliations and prioritise their role as Indians and Manipuris.
“Once you enter the state police, you have to remove the mindset of ethnic division. You may be a Meitei, a Muslim, Thadou, Naga, Vaiphei, but you have to forget the ethnic belongingness and have to work for the welfare of the nation as an Indian, as a Manipuri,” stated Chief Minister Singh, on Thursday.
He stressed the primary duty of the police to protect citizens, prevent crimes, and maintain peace and order. “When the 42,000-strong state police force works on this line, it will be successful in bringing a united India and a united Manipur,” he added.
The Chief Minister also highlighted the consequences of police personnel not fulfilling their duties effectively, stating that miscreants and lawbreakers take advantage of such situations.
Singh acknowledged recent incidents of arms and ammunition looted from the state police, some of which have been returned, while others were recovered during combing operations by combined teams from both hill and valley districts. He urged those with arms to voluntarily hand them over to the authorities, assuring that FIRs would not be filed against those who comply.
Additionally, Chief Minister Singh appealed to the police force to support the government’s “War on Drugs” campaign, and reiterated that its objective is to safeguard present and future generations from the scourge of drugs.
The Chief Minister took a moment to express his condolences for the 11 personnel who lost their lives while striving to protect lives, property, and unity amid the ongoing turmoil. Of the 11, eight were from the Manipur Police, two from the BSF, and one from Assam Rifles.
