IMPHAL: The mass burial for 35 of the victims of the ongoing ethnic violence in Manipur by Indigenous Tribal Leaders’ Forum (ITLF) has been put on hold for five more days. The forum decided on the postponement after discussions with the Union Home Ministry on August 3.
Initially, the ITLF had announced that the mass burial would take place in S Boljang, near Haolai Khopi, on Thursday but the choice of location caused friction with the Coordinating Committee on Manipur Integrity, which claimed that the site fell within Bishnupur district and termed it “an affront to the people.”
The ITLF asserted that the burial site at Bualjang village was within Churachandpur and maintained its intention to honour the victims as “martyrs” at the Peace Ground in Tuibuong before the burial.
In response to the ITLF’s demands, the Union Home Ministry assured them of its commitment to resolving the crisis amicably within a period of seven days. However, the ITLF stated that they would proceed with the mass burial only after receiving a written assurance from the government on five specific demands.
Ahead of the planned mass burial, the situation remained tense in Manipur, with arsonists torching two abandoned houses at Langol in Imphal West district. Fortunately, there were no reported injuries in the incident, and the fire was promptly extinguished by fire tenders.
Despite the challenges and volatility, the Manipur Police stated that the situation was currently under control. The state government extended the curfew-free window in Imphal East and West districts, allowing movement from 5 am to 8 pm, while maintaining the curfew hours from 5 am to 5 pm in Thoubal, Kakching, and Bishnupur valley districts.
The ITLF expressed its commitment to continue pressing the government for a solution to the crisis, and the security establishment remains vigilant to prevent any escalation of emotions during the delayed mass burial. As the situation unfolds, authorities are working diligently to ensure peace and stability in the region.
