Myanmar Instability, Weapons with Manipur Groups Key Issues in Restoring Peace: Lt General RP Kalita

Defense News ,India :- Lt General RP Kalita, the Eastern Army Commander, highlighted the prevailing challenges in restoring peace to Manipur during a media interaction at Fort William. The availability of a substantial number of firearms among conflicting groups in Manipur and the instability in Myanmar, leading to an influx of people into the state, are identified as the primary hurdles.

Addressing the issue, Lt General Kalita emphasized the potential for the situation to escalate at any time as long as firearms remain in the possession of the warring Kuki and Meitei communities. He underscored the challenge posed by the availability of weapons, whether stolen from Manipur police armory or acquired from Myanmar.

The General Officer Commanding-in-Chief stated that the armed forces duty is to ensure the absence of violent activities, a duty successfully implemented in Manipur to address ethnic conflicts between the Kukis and Meiteis. Lt General Kalita stressed the need to recover stolen weapons and eliminate all sources providing weapons to the public, ensuring a weapon-free society.

The Eastern Army Commander informed that coordinated operations have been launched, resulting in the recovery of weapons and ammunition over the last few months. He also pointed out the spillover of conflict from Myanmar, with civilian populations seeking refuge on the Indian side during clashes between the Myanmar Army and opposing forces.

Discussing the challenges posed by the continuous influx of people across the borders, Lt General Kalita mentioned the collaboration between state police and the Assam Rifles to gather biometric details and compile data. He acknowledged the associated anxieties related to contraband and weapons smuggling, exacerbated by the difficult terrains between India and Myanmar, making border control challenging.

Despite these challenges, Lt General Kalita mentioned ongoing efforts by the Centre and state government to engage both communities. He highlighted existing dialogues at political and civil society levels, emphasizing that dialogue is the only way forward for a permanent solution to the complex situation in Manipur.