Despite Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh’s bold assertion that his government has ushered in tranquility within the state, even attributing it a staggering 90 percent peace quotient, a harrowing reality casts a shadow: today, a brazen assault by Kuki militants claimed the life of a valiant Manipur Police officer. SDPO Chingtham Anand, who served as the Moreh Police Officer-in-Charge, met his untimely demise while diligently discharging his duties, supervising the preparatory groundwork for the helipad construction at Eastern Shine School, a joint initiative between the State’s formidable security forces and the resolute BSF.
For the past six months, the dedicated officer has tirelessly remained in Moreh, unwaveringly committed to safeguarding the local residents. During this time, he has not once had the opportunity to return to the comforts of his own home.
The unwavering confidence in Chief Minister N Biren Singh’s assertions about a return to normalcy within the state remained unshaken, yet the stark reality in the hill regions relentlessly contradicted his claims. The tumultuous unrest, now edging toward a challenging six-month mark, is set to culminate on November 6, serving as a poignant reminder of the persistent fragility of peace in Manipur’s diverse and often troubled landscapes.
In the wake of Officer Anand’s tragic demise, Chief Minister N Biren Singh has vehemently denounced it as a heinous, cold-blooded act of violence. He has solemnly pledged that the culprits responsible for this reprehensible act will be relentlessly pursued and swiftly brought to justice.
“Deeply saddened by the cold-blooded killing of SDPO Chingtham Anand, OC Moreh Police this morning. His dedication to serve and protect the people will always be remembered. The perpetrators will be brought to justice,” he tweeted.
SDPO Chingtham Anand had sustained severe injuries when a group of Kuki militants opened fire on law enforcement personnel who were conducting a routine inspection of a newly constructed helipad in the Eastern grounds of Moreh. Despite valiant efforts to save him, Anand tragically succumbed to his injuries, casting a pall of sorrow over the community. In response to this act of violence, a swift and resolute operation has been mobilized in the vicinity, aimed at bringing the elusive militants to justice and restoring a sense of security in the region.
Originating from the Imphal region, a dedicated team of law enforcement personnel had converged in Pallel, poised to embark as a reinforcement contingent to the area where the valiant police officer had tragically lost his life. This mobilization included high-ranking police officials, notably Manipur Police (IGP Zone 1) Themthing Ngasangba, DIG (Range 2) Jogeschandra Haobijam and Thoubal Additional SP (Operations) Wangkhomba, who were resolutely endeavoring to expedite their journey to Moreh to oversee the unfolding situation. Three police personnel were injured in the attack.
However, the course of their mission took a harrowing turn just as they had traversed a mere 10 kilometers from Pallel, reaching the Sinam Khul vicinity. At this juncture, their convoy fell victim to a treacherous ambush, orchestrated by suspected Kuki militants. This brazen act of violence not only posed a significant threat to the safety of the police officials but also underscored the complex and volatile security landscape in the region.
In a bid to honor the fallen police officer’s sacrifice, state authorities had made preparations to bestow state honors at the solemn backdrop of the Manipur Police Memorial, situated at the 1st Battalion Manipur Rifles ground. This gesture of respect and recognition aimed to pay homage to the officer’s unwavering dedication and service.
However, the anticipated event took an unexpected and disheartening turn when a discord emerged between the Joint Action Committee (JAC), formed in protest against the tragic killing of the police officer, and the state authorities. The unfortunate dispute culminated in the deeply lamentable cancellation of the ceremony. While the state government had pledged to bestow honors, the stark reality remains that it has faltered in its duty to safeguard the people of Manipur throughout the past six months. This persistent failure has left a trail of disillusionment among citizens who have become increasingly convinced that Chief Minister N Biren Singh is ineffectual in stemming the tide of conflict and turmoil that has gripped Manipur.