The Republican Party of India (Athawale) has questioned the role of the security forces in connection with the burning of houses at Kanto Sabal, alleging that the incident occurred barely 50 metres from a Central security post.
In a statement, Maheshwar Thounaojam, National Secretary, Central Working Committee (CWC) Member and Manipur State President of the RPI (Athawale), described the incident as a serious security lapse, stating that the houses were set ablaze in broad daylight while the residents remained in relief camps.
He alleged that security personnel deployed at the nearby 18th Punjab Regiment post failed to explain how the incident occurred. Maheshwar further claimed that requests to meet the officer concerned, including one made during a visit by a Member of Parliament, went unanswered.
Stating that protecting the lives and property of civilians is the primary responsibility of the security forces, Maheshwar said the failure to prevent the arson despite the presence of security personnel was unacceptable and called for accountability over the incident.