Imphal, April 19 (NationPress) Manipur's Home Minister, Konthoujam Govindas Singh, announced on Sunday that more Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) will be stationed in the state following the completion of elections in West Bengal and other states.

Previously, approximately 88 companies of central forces had been pulled out from Manipur for election-related duties in states like West Bengal, Assam, and Tamil Nadu, as reported by the Home Minister during a press briefing.

He further mentioned that although the Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) had intended to withdraw additional forces from Manipur, Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh's intervention led to an assurance from the MHA that no further companies would be retracted.

In a call for public support, the Home Minister urged civil society organizations and citizens to reconsider the planned five-day total shutdown, emphasizing its potential negative impact on public welfare and the state’s routine operations.

Various groups have initiated a five-day shutdown in Ukhrul district and nearby regions to protest against the alleged killings of two Naga civilians on Saturday by suspected Kuki militants.

Chief Minister Khemchand Singh underscored the difficulties posed by extended shutdowns, noting that daily workers, farmers, and students are particularly affected, especially with educational institutions being closed.

He reassured the public that the state government is taking their concerns seriously and is actively addressing the raised issues.

The Home Minister indicated that most of the demands from the Joint Action Committee (JAC) concerning the tragic April 7 incident in Bishnupur district—where two children lost their lives—have been accepted by the government.

After discussions with Mangal Singh, the father of the deceased children, the state government has offered him a suitable government position equivalent to his current role in the Border Security Force (BSF).

Moreover, the state government has committed to providing employment to the children's mother, who is a trained nurse, within the state health services.

However, the family has requested time to evaluate these proposals.

Consequently, the decision to initiate a five-day shutdown was reached, which the Manipur Home Minister labeled as "extremely regrettable."

Regarding the incident that occurred on Saturday in T. Kasom village in Ukhrul district, Chief Minister Khemchand Singh expressed that it was "deeply unfortunate" and reiterated the government’s strong condemnation of the act.

He mentioned that the Tangkhul Naga Long (TNL) has submitted a memorandum detailing various demands, which were discussed in a joint meeting with TNL leaders and Naga MLAs, led by Deputy Chief Minister Losii Dikho.

The Home Minister assured that compensation would be provided to the families of the victims per government guidelines, and medical support would be available for the injured.

Calling for unity, Chief Minister Khemchand Singh urged all communities to foster peace and resolve issues through constructive dialogue.

He reaffirmed the state government’s dedication to addressing the public’s grievances.

On security matters, the State Home Minister noted that of the 272 CAPF companies previously deployed in Manipur, 88 have already been reassigned for election duties, with an additional 15 originally set to be redeployed, resulting in a total of 103.

However, due to the Chief Minister's request, 184 CAPF companies will remain in the state to ensure security and stability.

Additionally, Chief Minister Khemchand Singh announced the introduction of advanced security equipment, including mine-resistant vehicles and bullet-proof transports, to bolster public safety.

"We urge all communities to collaborate with the government. Our priority is to safeguard the lives and properties of every citizen. Following a period of President's Rule, this newly established government is committed to restoring peace and normalcy. We ask for the public’s patience," stated the State Home Minister.