Bishnupur DC chairs security meet to review ground-level preparedness for safe farming and resettlement of internally displaced persons (IDPs) in Manipur. The high-level meeting took place on Tuesday, bringing together senior officials from the police, army, and civil administration.
As tensions continue in parts of Manipur, especially in the hills and valley interface regions, the administration in Bishnupur is taking proactive steps to ensure civilians feel safe returning to their fields and homes.
Bishnupur DC chairs security meet to coordinate peace efforts
Deputy Commissioner Lourembam Bikram chaired the meeting at the district headquarters. He emphasised that ensuring the safety of farmers during the current cultivation season is a top priority. He also stressed the need to build confidence among displaced families who have been living in relief camps for over a year.
The Bishnupur DC chaired the security meet in the presence of top officials from the 6th Battalion of Manipur Rifles, Bishnupur Police, CRPF, and Indian Army. Discussions focused on deployment of security forces in sensitive areas, escort arrangements, and communication systems between villages and security posts.
“We are committed to a peaceful environment that supports both farming and the return of displaced persons,” said the DC. He added that every department must work in close coordination to ensure no security gaps exist during this crucial period.
Farming season begins amid cautious optimism
July marks the start of the paddy cultivation season in Manipur. For many residents of Bishnupur, returning to their farmlands is both an economic need and an emotional step toward rebuilding normal life. However, fears of sporadic violence and mistrust among communities have slowed the return process.
Thanks to improved security deployment and patrols, several villagers have begun visiting their fields during the day. Still, many prefer to return in groups and under escort by security personnel.
During the security meet chaired by Bishnupur DC, officials reviewed maps of farming zones and conflict-prone areas. They agreed to increase presence along vulnerable village boundaries and ensure that field visits by IDPs are closely monitored and protected.
IDP resettlement remains a major challenge
The conflict that erupted in May 2023 displaced over 50,000 people across Manipur. Bishnupur district alone hosts thousands of IDPs living in temporary shelters and relief camps. For many, returning home is still not possible due to destroyed properties or fear of reprisal.
The Bishnupur DC chaired the security meet to speed up the safe return of these displaced families. Relief officers and revenue officials were instructed to identify feasible resettlement areas and begin the rehabilitation process with local community support.
Several IDPs, who spoke anonymously, said they are ready to return if they feel protected. “We want to go back to our homes and farms. But we need assurance that violence won’t happen again,” said a 38-year-old mother from Phoubakchao.
To help facilitate return, the administration has also initiated trust-building dialogues among local leaders, youth groups, and women’s organisations.
Inter-department coordination and public awareness stressed
During the review, the DC urged all departments to communicate effectively and update villagers about safety arrangements. Awareness campaigns, especially in vulnerable villages, will be launched to prevent the spread of rumours or panic.
As Bishnupur DC chairs security meet at a critical time, all eyes are on whether coordinated security and communication strategies can translate into a safer environment.
District police officials confirmed they are also monitoring social media to prevent misinformation that could disrupt peace efforts.
The move to restore peace and confidence in Bishnupur is gaining ground. As the Bishnupur DC chairs security meet, the administration sends a clear message: farming must go on, and displaced families deserve the right to return safely.
Though challenges remain, collective efforts by civil and security bodies offer hope. With farming resuming and IDPs gradually considering return, Manipur inches closer to healing and rebuilding community trust.
