Imphal, Dec 5 (NationPress) The Manipur government has issued a stern warning against anti-social elements and individuals who threaten or disrupt the peaceful coexistence of communities, stating that they will face strict legal repercussions.

In an official notification, Chief Secretary Puneet Kumar Goel emphasized that any person or organization found to be making threats or attempting to disturb harmony will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.

“The state government reaffirms its steadfast commitment to protect the citizens of Manipur. We earnestly urge the public to unite against unlawful elements and support the state’s efforts in maintaining peace, harmony, and public order, which are crucial for steering the state back toward growth and development,” stated the Chief Secretary in the notification.

He noted that the Manipur government has become aware of certain organizations trying to instill fear in law-abiding citizens and disrupt the peace.

Goel mentioned that actions have already been taken against these anti-social elements by the Manipur Police.

Any attempts to intimidate or compromise the safety and security of citizens is deemed an act against the state and its populace. He reiterated that no individual, group, or organization, regardless of their status, has the right to impose decrees or restrict lawful cultural, economic, or artistic activities in Manipur.

The government has urged the public to report any incidents of threats, extortion, coercion, or suspicious behavior to the nearest police station, as stated by the Chief Secretary.

The notification from the Chief Secretary warned that immediate punitive measures will be enforced against all credible reports regarding threats to the lives and properties of Manipur's citizens. The government has previously established an anti-extortion cell under the Home Department.

The toll-free number for this cell is available 24/7, and the identities of informants will remain confidential.

In relation to threats made against participants of the Sumang Leela associations and other performers at the recently concluded Manipur Sangai Festival 2025 by insurgent groups, the Manipur Police have recorded five cases across five districts in the Imphal valley: Imphal West, Imphal East, Bishnupur, Thoubal, and Kakching. Investigations are ongoing to identify and take legal action against those responsible.

So far, three militants have been apprehended in connection with these cases.

The police have assured that stringent measures will be enforced against any attempts to intimidate or disrupt cultural and public events within the state.

After a two-year hiatus, the 10-day Sangai Tourism Festival took place at Hapta Kangjeibung in Imphal from November 21 to 30.

Additionally, prior to the Sangai Tourism Festival, various groups of violence-affected Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) and numerous Civil Society Organizations (CSOs), including the Coordinating Committee on Manipur Integrity (COCOMI), an umbrella group of several Meitei civil society organizations, called for a cease-work strike and urged the public to boycott the festival while organizing a series of protests.

These groups claimed that the state government's organization of the annual Sangai Tourism Festival from November 21 to 30 implies that normalcy has returned to their areas, and therefore, they should be permitted to return home rather than remain in relief camps.