Imphal: Security has been beefed up in various parts of Manipur, including the capital city of Imphal, ahead of the Independence Day celebrations, according to officials.
Deployment of security personnel from state and Central Armed Police Force units, along with the Army and Assam Rifles, has been increased along important crossings in and around Imphal, including Keisampat and Moirangkhom junctions.
Preparations are underway for the Independence Day celebration throughout the state, with personnel from the CRPF, local police, Assam Rifles, and students actively participating in rehearsals for a planned march past on August 15.
The event is set to take place at the 1st Manipur Rifles ground and district headquarters.
On Wednesday, as part of the enhanced security measures, CRPF units established several Mobile Check Posts (MCP) at strategic locations across the state, according to a post by the force on X.
“A total of 443 vehicles were inspected, and 722 individuals were frisked,” it stated.
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The situation comes as several outlawed groups have declared a general strike on Friday.
“We are taking every possible security measures to make the Independence Day celebrations successful,” a senior police officer said.
Notably, the proscribed armed group, Alliance for Socialist Unity, Kangleipak (ASUK), has announced a 12-hour statewide shutdown on August 15, from 6 am to 6 pm, in protest against the observance of Independence Day in Manipur.
In a statement issued by S. Mangal, convener of ASUK’s publicity committee, the outfit reiterated its stance that August 15 marks ‘Colonial Freedom Day’ for India, whereas the people of Manipur consider August 14 as their own Independence Day.
