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Manipur : Joint drive to flush out militants |
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The unified command in Manipur has launched an operation at several strongholds of extremists in the state. Troop build-up has been reported in rebel strongholds like Churachandpur and Chandel districts, both bordering Myanmar, and more intensified operations are in the offing. After the 10th Sector was shifted from Ukhrul to Palel, a full army brigade begun operating from Chakpikarong in Chandel.
Senior police officials said the army and the state police were collaborating in counter-insurgency operations.
Police combed Imphal’s high-security Babupara following information that some suspected militants had sneaked into the area. Nearly 100 suspects were rounded up but later released, the police said.
Special adviser
The Manmohan Singh cabinet has given the green signal for the creation of a special post of Adviser on Manipur in the Union Home Ministry. Finance minister P. Chidambaram told the media that the proposal came from the home ministry and the cabinet gave its nod at a meeting last week.
An officer of the rank of additional secretary will be given the post. A source in the home ministry said an officer “familiar with Manipur” would be chosen to advise Union home minister Shivraj Patil on various issues pertaining to the state.
Delhi’s objective is to facilitate expeditious decisions to improve law and order in Manipur, which has been in turmoil since Thangjam Manorama died in Assam Rifles’ custody in July.
A judicial commission, an army court of inquiry and the police are separately investigating the circumstances leading to her death. She was allegedly raped before being shot dead.
The announcement by Union Finance Minister Chidambaram coincided with a decision by the Apunba Lup, which is coordinating the agitation in Manipur, to boycott the winner of the byelection to the Konthoujam Assembly seat.
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