CBI registers 6 FIRs, forms SIT to probe Manipur violence

During his visit to the northeastern state, Union Home Minister Amit Shah had announced a CBI probe to investigate six FIRs — five on alleged criminal conspiracy and one on general conspiracy behind the violence in Manipur. Acting on a reference from the state routed through the Centre, the CBI has formed the SIT and taken over the investigation in the cases, officials told news agency PTI.

Shah was on a four-day visit to Manipur to review the security situation in the state and bring warring Kukis and Meiteis together to resolve the turmoil that has affected Manipur since May 3.

In Churachandpur, which was among the worst hit districts, Shah held closed-door meetings with leaders of the Zo-Kuki civil society organisations, tribe representatives and intellectuals. His first round of talks, which lasted for about an hour, was with civil society organisation leaders, student bodies, women groups and tribe leaders.

Besides an independent probe, Shah is reported to have given several other assurances including: selected cases to be taken up by the CBI with no involvement of state officers; rehabilitation for loss of life and property to be transferred via direct benefit; relief material to the state; and helpline numbers in Imphal and Churachandpur.

The death toll in the violence that had engulfed Manipur currently stands at 98. An official statement issued by the Chief Minister’s Office (CMO) puts the number of injured at 310 and recorded cases of arson at 4,014. As many as 144 stolen arms have been recovered along with 11 magazines. The recovered arms include 29 Self-Loading Rifles (SLR), 15 carbines, 12 INSAS rifles and 10 grenade-launchers among others, it said.

According to the statement, as many as 3,734 FIRs have been registered, the maximum being in Imphal West district at 1,257, followed by Kangpokpi (932) and Bishnupur (844).

From the homepage

Red Fort blast: NIA makes first arrest, accused Umar Nabi’s close aide nabbed

‘No terror conspiracy or outside interference’ behind Nowgam blast: J-K Lt Governor Manoj Sinha

Eden Gardens Test: India lose at home yet again, Simon Harmer leads South Africa’s famous win