Indian govt sends 50 CAPF companies to Manipur as violence escalates in Jiribam 

The Indian government is dispatching an additional 50 companies of Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) to Manipur in the wake of the state's security situation. The 50 companies of CAPF will comprise more than 5,000 personnel, various Indian media outlets reported.

Union Home MinisterAmit Shahmet security officials at North Block on Monday (Nov. 18) and directed the paramilitary forces to focus on restoring peace and order in the Indian state of Manipur.

The step was taken a day after Shah cancelled his political rallies in the Indian state of Maharastra to look into Manipur's security situation.

Later, the minister held a review meeting with senior security officials at his home, which continued for around four to five hours.

Shah also sent CRPF DG Anish Dayal Singh, who is from the Manipur cadre, to Imphal. He hasbeen asked to coordinate with all the forces and send a ground assessment report.

Centre looks into fragile situation in Manipur

Last week, the Centre in a statement said that Manipur's security scenario has been fragile for the past few days.

“Armed miscreants from both communities in conflict have been indulging in violence, leading to the unfortunate loss of lives and disruption in public order. All the security forces have been directed to take the necessary steps to restore order and peace. Strict action will be initiated against anyone trying to indulge in violent and disruptive activities,” it said in a statement.

Watch:India | Manipur Unrest: Home Minister Amit Shah To Review Security Situation

The decision to sendan additional 50 CAPF companies toManipur has been taken by the Centre and after the Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) had dispatched 20 additional CAPF companies, 15 from the CRPF and five from the BSF, to the state as part of an order issued on November 12 after violence escalated in Jiribam district and spread to other places.

(With inputs from agencies)