Manipur curfew update: Authorities have partially relaxed curfew restrictions in five valley districts of Manipur amid continued tensions. The decision follows a stretch of relative calm in some areas, prompting the government to allow limited public movement during daylight hours. However, heightened security and night-time restrictions remain in place as ethnic tensions and fear of renewed violence continue to grip the region.
This Manipur curfew update offers limited relief to residents who have been under strict restrictions for days due to fears of fresh violence and rising ethnic tensions.
Read More: Covid-19 Safety: 5 Simple Habits to Stay Protected
Curfew Eased, But Situation Still Tense
According to the Manipur Home Department, the curfew has been relaxed during the daytime in Imphal West, Imphal East, Bishnupur, Thoubal, and Kakching districts. However, night-time restrictions and surveillance will continue to remain in place until further notice.
“Movement will be allowed from 5 AM to 6 PM in designated zones, but security checks will continue,” said a senior police officer. The administration has advised citizens to avoid unnecessary gatherings and cooperate with law enforcement.
Coordination with Security Forces
Security has been beefed up across the valley districts, with additional deployment of paramilitary personnel. Flag marches and area domination patrols are ongoing in sensitive localities to prevent any flare-up.
The state government is in constant touch with central agencies, and the Unified Command structure is reviewing daily intelligence reports to assess risk areas. “Peace is our top priority, and we’re easing restrictions only after careful evaluation,” said a government spokesperson.
Background: Weeks of Ethnic Tension
The Manipur curfew update comes against the backdrop of weeks of violent clashes between Meitei and Kuki communities, primarily in the valley and hill districts. Several lives have been lost, hundreds displaced, and properties torched during the peak of the unrest.
Tensions initially flared after a demand by the Meitei community for Scheduled Tribe (ST) status. Protests and counter-protests quickly escalated, leading to widespread violence across the state.
While relative calm has returned in recent days, sporadic incidents and deep-rooted mistrust continue to fuel uncertainty.
Mixed Response from Residents
Locals have welcomed the curfew relaxation but remain cautious. “We can finally step out to buy groceries and essentials,” said Priyanka Laishram, a resident of Imphal East. “But everyone is still nervous. We’re keeping outings short and staying alert.”
Traders and small businesses opened shops cautiously, with many saying they had suffered heavy losses due to the prolonged shutdown. “Even a few hours of business helps us survive,” said Rakesh Meitei, who owns a general store in Thoubal.
However, some villagers, especially in fringe areas, expressed concern over continued threats from armed groups. They have urged the government to ensure long-term safety before fully lifting curfews.
Political Leaders Call for Dialogue
In light of the Manipur curfew update, opposition and civil society groups have urged Chief Minister N. Biren Singh to initiate broader peace talks.
Congress leader Jairam Ramesh stated, “Partial curfew relaxation is not enough. What’s needed is a political process to address the root of the conflict.”
Community leaders from both Meitei and Kuki groups have echoed the need for a peace-building roadmap. “Without reconciliation, we’re only deferring another crisis,” said a local church pastor from Churachandpur.
Government Urges Public Cooperation
The Manipur government has asked citizens to report suspicious activity and avoid spreading rumors on social media. “Fake news is adding fuel to fire,” said State IT Minister Govindas Konthoujam. “We are cracking down on misinformation and have already blocked multiple inflammatory posts.”
The Chief Minister has appealed for calm and urged all communities to cooperate with authorities. “Violence cannot solve our problems. We must talk and find peaceful solutions,” he said in a statement.
What’s Next?
The next few days will be crucial in determining whether the state can move toward lasting peace. If stability holds, the administration may consider extending curfew relaxations or lifting them altogether.
Meanwhile, peace committees are being set up at district levels, involving local leaders, police, and youth volunteers. These groups will work toward conflict resolution and community rebuilding.
Final Word
While the Manipur curfew update signals a positive shift, the road to peace is still uncertain. Rebuilding trust among communities, providing relief to the displaced, and addressing the core political demands will be essential steps forward.
For now, the partial easing of curfews offers a small but important window of hope for thousands of Manipur residents who simply want normalcy to return.
