Mizoram’s high alert across all districts as violence grips neighbouring Manipur

By Indrajit Kundu: Amid escalating tensions in Manipur, the Mizoram government today put all districts in the state on high alert. “In view of the ongoing crisis in neighboring Manipur, all Deputy Commissioners of the Districts in Mizoram are advised to be on high alert and make appropriate arrangements to provide safety and security including temporary shelter and other amenities for people who are seeking refuge in Mizoram,” read a circular issued by the state’s General Administration Department.

District authorities have been instructed to ensure stringent measures to prevent any possible flare up of ethnic tension within their jurisdictions. They have also been asked to provide security for people from Manipur who may be residing in the various districts of Mizoram.

The Mizoram Police has appealed to the public to not indulge in rumour mongering. “Do not forward unsubstantiated and unconfirmed messages/videos on social media, as they may be old, unrelated or even fake. They may disrupt peace and tranquility. While we are committed to the protection of one and all and maintaining communal harmony at all costs with the best of our abilities, we urge all to help us in all our endeavours in our beautiful, peace-loving state,” it said in a statement.

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On Thursday, Mizoram Chief Minister Zoramthanga spoke to his Manipur’s N Biren Singh and discussed ways to ensure the safety of the ethnic Zohnahthlak community living in strife-torn Manipur. Union Home Minister Amit Shah also spoke to Mizoram’s chief minister, assuring the state that central paramilitary forces would be deployed if required.

“The Mizoram government calls for peace and harmony to be restored in Manipur. While expressing solidarity with the Zohnahthlak community, the Mizoram government appeals to all cross sections of society in Mizoram to work towards maintaining peace and to do away with any elements that may escalate or aggravate the present situation,” the state’s home department said in a statement.

Mizoram’s Home Minister Lalchamliana is monitoring the situation closely to ensure that no untoward incidents occur in the state.

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