Manipur Violence: CBI Files 6 FIRs, SIT Formed For Probe

During his trip to the northeastern state, Union Home Minister Amit Shah announced that a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) inquiry would take place.

CBI Files 6 FIRs, SIT Formed For Probe

The CBI has now re-registered six First Information Reports (FIR) and established a Special Investigation Team (SIT) headed by a DIG-ranked officer to investigate cases connected to the ethnic violence in Manipur, which resulted in nearly 100 fatalities. The SIT comprises ten officers.

The CBI is responding to a request from the state, forwarded through the central government, and has formed the SIT to assume control of the investigations. The SIT will examine six FIRs, including five related to alleged criminal conspiracy and one concerning the general conspiracy behind the violence in Manipur, as informed by officials to news agency PTI.

Related Read | Amit Shah requests that all parties in Manipur to maintain calm for 15 days

Home Minister Amit Shah’s Visit

Shah’s four-day visit to Manipur aimed to evaluate the security situation in the state and foster reconciliation between the conflicting Kuki and Meitei communities to address the ongoing unrest since May 3. In Churachandpur, one of the severely affected districts, Shah engaged in closed-door discussions with leaders of Zo-Kuki civil society organizations, tribal representatives, and intellectuals. His initial round of talks lasted approximately an hour and involved civil society leaders, student groups, women’s organizations, and tribal leaders.

Apart from an independent investigation, Shah reportedly provided several assurances, such as assigning selected cases to the CBI without involving state officials, facilitating direct benefit transfers for loss of life and property, providing relief materials to the state, and establishing helpline numbers in Imphal and Churachandpur.

Loss Of Lives In Manipur Violence

The death toll resulting from the violence in Manipur currently stands at 98. A statement released by the Chief Minister’s Office (CMO) states that there are 310 recorded injuries and 4,014 cases of arson. Additionally, authorities have recovered 144 stolen firearms, including 29 Self-Loading Rifles (SLR), 15 carbines, 12 INSAS rifles, and 10 grenade-launchers, along with 11 magazines.

According to the statement, a total of 3,734 FIRs have been registered, with the highest number in Imphal West district at 1,257, followed by Kangpokpi (932) and Bishnupur (844).

Also Read | A history of the Kuki Tribe In Freedom Struggle And Netaji’s INA