Manipur MLAs Targeted by Fraudulent Calls Amid Political Turmoil

Synopsis
In light of the ongoing political turmoil in Manipur, the police have launched an investigation into fraudulent calls aimed at misleading MLAs. The authorities have warned that strict legal actions will follow against those participating in these deceptive practices.
Key Takeaways
- Manipur Police investigating fraudulent calls to MLAs.
- Legal actions initiated against perpetrators.
- Public urged to verify information through government sources.
- New Integrated Anti-Extortion Cell established.
- President's Rule imposed following political shifts.
Imphal, Feb 16 (NationPress) The Manipur Police initiated an investigation and legal proceedings after reports of fraudulent calls targeting several MLAs emerged, aiming to mislead and manipulate them amidst the current political climate in the state, officials stated on Sunday.
A senior police official disclosed that the police have received numerous complaints regarding these deceptive calls from unidentified individuals attempting to sway and mislead the state's MLAs by taking advantage of the ongoing political scenario.
"An FIR was filed at the Imphal police station on Saturday, and appropriate legal measures are in progress. Those engaged in such fraudulent behavior will face severe legal repercussions," the official informed the media.
He noted that a thorough investigation is actively ongoing.
Last week, Manipur Chief Secretary Prashant Kumar Singh appealed to all citizens to maintain composure and avoid falling victim to unverified information, rumors, or misinformation that might lead to unnecessary panic or disturb peace and harmony within the state.
Recently, misleading information has circulated through different platforms, resulting in confusion and unrest.
The government has also become aware that certain dishonest individuals and groups might intentionally try to incite unrest, disrupt peace, and instill fear among the populace through false information, inflammatory content, or fabricated stories, Singh stated.
The Chief Secretary emphasized that such efforts are designed to foster lawlessness, and the public is strongly urged to disregard such misinformation or incitement.
"To guarantee that citizens receive reliable information, the government has established a Control Room, allowing residents to verify any news or information they encounter. This Control Room operates 24/7. Upholding peace and law and order is a shared responsibility, and the government earnestly advises all inhabitants to stay alert against those promoting disturbances," he added.
Singh reiterated that any attempt to provoke violence or undermine harmony would be addressed rigorously according to the law.
In an effort to combat illegal extortion from civilians, government personnel, contractors, and others, the Manipur government previously announced the creation of a dedicated Integrated Anti-Extortion Cell within the Home Department.
This newly formed cell will include representatives from the State Police, Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF), Assam Rifles, and the Army.
Following Chief Minister N. Biren Singh's resignation on February 9, extensive discussions occurred to appoint a successor leader for the ruling BJP Legislature Party, who would become the Chief Minister of the new government.
Since February 9, Sambit Patra, BJP's in-charge for northeastern states, has conducted multiple meetings with Ministers, MLAs, and leaders from BJP and other allied parties to gather their opinions.
"As we could not finalize a consensus name for the Legislature Party leader who could take over as Chief Minister after Biren Singh's resignation, the Governor recommended to the President to impose President's Rule in the state," another senior BJP leader indicated.
President Droupadi Murmu enacted President's Rule on February 13, placing the 60-member Assembly under suspended animation.