The Foothills Naga Coordination Committee has urged the Union Home Ministry to order an impartial probe into the Kanto Sabal arson incident and strengthen security around Leimakhong.
Imphal, July 14: The Foothills Naga Coordination Committee (FNCC) has submitted a memorandum to Union Home Minister Amit Shah, seeking an immediate and impartial investigation into the arson incident at Kanto Sabal in Manipur's Imphal West district and urging the Centre to strengthen security arrangements around Leimakhong to prevent similar incidents.
The memorandum, dated July 14 and routed through the Governor of Manipur, follows the July 11 incident in which three residential houses were destroyed by fire at Kanto Sabal, an area located near the headquarters of the 57 Mountain Division of the Indian Army at Leimakhong.
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In its representation, the FNCC expressed concern that the incident occurred immediately outside the gate of one of the country's major military establishments despite the presence of multiple security agencies. It stated that the occurrence has created widespread concern and apprehension among residents of the area.
The committee observed that local communities have traditionally placed their trust in the Indian Armed Forces and other security agencies to safeguard peace, national security and civilian lives. It stated that the arson incident has naturally raised questions regarding the adequacy of existing security arrangements and the effectiveness of coordination among agencies responsible for maintaining law and order.
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According to the FNCC, a prompt, transparent and impartial investigation is necessary not only to establish the facts and bring those responsible to justice but also to preserve public confidence in institutions entrusted with maintaining peace and security.
The committee cautioned that if incidents of this nature continue to occur in areas with a significant security presence without timely accountability and preventive measures, public confidence in the security forces could gradually erode. Such a development, it noted, could weaken the cooperative relationship between civilians and security agencies that is essential for maintaining peace, stability and the rule of law.
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In the memorandum, the FNCC urged the Government of India to take the following measures:
Order an immediate, impartial and time-bound investigation into the July 11 arson incident.
Identify and prosecute all those responsible in accordance with the law.
Review and strengthen security arrangements in and around Kanto Sabal and Leimakhong to prevent similar incidents.
Conduct a comprehensive assessment of any security lapses and implement corrective measures.
Enhance coordination among the Indian Army, Central Armed Police Forces and the Manipur Police.
Provide appropriate relief and rehabilitation to the affected families.
The committee maintained that swift and decisive intervention by the Government of India would ensure accountability, restore public confidence and reaffirm the Centre's commitment to the safety and security of all citizens.
The FNCC concluded by urging the Union Home Minister to intervene in the interest of justice, public confidence and lasting peace in the region.
