Govt Drafting Roadmap for Peace in Manipur, Dialogue Between Communities Key to Solution: Amit Shah

New Delhi: Union Minister Amit Shah announced on Tuesday that the government is actively engaging with both Meitei and Kuki communities to find a sustainable solution to the ongoing violence in Manipur. Shah also highlighted progress on the India-Myanmar border fencing, an effort aimed at curbing infiltration.

During his update on the Modi 3.0 administration’s first 100 days, Shah stressed the commencement of border fencing as a critical measure against illegal crossings. He noted that the India-Myanmar border has seen 30 km of fencing completed, marking a significant step in the government’s security strategy.

Regarding Manipur’s unrest, which has claimed over 220 lives since May 3 last year, Shah reported a decrease in major incidents over the past three months, barring recent violence. He stressed that lasting peace can only be achieved through dialogue between the hill-majority Kukis and Valley-majority Meiteis.

Shah revealed that the government has deployed Central Reserve Police Force personnel strategically across Manipur and is working on a roadmap for peace. He also noted the completion of 11 peace agreements with various militant groups, leading to the reintegration of 10,900 former insurgents.

In response to opposition calls for PM Modi’s visit to Manipur, Shah stated that the timing of such a visit would be announced in due course.

Additionally, the Union Home Minister announced the cessation of the India-Myanmar Free Movement Regime (FMR), which allowed border residents to cross 16 km into each other’s territory without documentation. Future cross-border travel will require a visa.

To support the affected population, the government plans to open 16 new Kendriya Police Kalyan Bhandars in Manipur, complementing the existing 21 stores. These facilities aim to provide essential goods at reasonable prices, especially in areas where transportation has been disrupted due to ongoing tensions.