Imphal (PTI): Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh on Monday said the director general of police has been asked to secure the release of two of the three youths who were allegedly abducted by militants in Kangpokpi district three days ago.
The government is discharging its duties to secure their release, he said.
"It is a very unfortunate incident. Of the three youths, one was released while the two others are still in the hands of militants. The Centre and the state government are in touch to ensure the safe release of the two youths. We are engaging in talks now," Singh told reporters on the sidelines of the 128th birth anniversary of Jana Neta Hijam Irabot.
Hijam Irabot was a legendary leader known for his contributions to the social, political and economic development of Manipur.
Accompanied by his two friends, N. Johnson Singh, who was rescued by the army, went for the SSC GD recruitment test for central forces at New Keithelmanbi in Manipur's Imphal West district but took a wrong turn, ending up in Kuki-dominated Kangpokpi, a police officer said.
The three, who hail from Thoubal district, were allegedly abducted by armed men in Kangpokpi, a police officer said.
"The DGP himself has gone to the place to have talks (with abductors). We believe that there will be a positive outcome.
"They have made some demands...But the government is trying to release the two youths unconditionally," Singh said.
Security forces in Manipur are making all-out efforts to trace the two missing youths, police said.
Speaking on the birth anniversary of the social reformer, Singh said, "I want to share my greetings to the people of the country on the occasion. We should strive to make the state based on the foundations of his teachings and works."
Taking to X, he later said, "Attended the observance of Jana Neta Hijam Irawat (Irabot) Day, 2024 at Irawat (Irabot) Square, Lilashing Khongnangkhong, Thangmeiband, Imphal today. Irawat was a visionary leader who spearheaded campaigns to uplift the people with socio-economic reforms. His fight against religious exploitation & economic oppression shall continue to inspire us for generations."
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Kolkata (PTI): Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar directed the authorities concerned to immediately arrest those involved in post-poll violence and vandalism in West Bengal, an official said on Wednesday.
The Election Commission's directive came after two persons were killed in alleged incidents of post-poll violence in the state on Tuesday, besides scores of party offices being ransacked.
The CEC issued instructions to the West Bengal chief secretary, director general of police, Kolkata police commissioner and directors general of central armed police forces, along with all district magistrates, superintendents of police and other officials, to maintain continuous patrolling in sensitive areas, he said.
"Those responsible for inciting violence and carrying out acts of vandalism must be arrested immediately," the official said, quoting the CEC's instruction.
The chief election commissioner also stressed the need for swift and firm enforcement of the law, he added.
This directive came amid concerns over law and order in parts of the state, with the Election Commission closely monitoring the situation, he added.
"We have been asked to remain on high alert and ensure that any attempt to disturb peace is dealt with firmly," a senior police officer said.
The state authorities have intensified vigil across districts, with coordinated efforts between the police and central forces to prevent any untoward incident, he added.
The assembly elections were held in West Bengal in two phases - April 23 and 29. The counting of votes took place on May 4.
The BJP sealed a landslide victory with 207 seats in the 294-member assembly, ending the TMC's uninterrupted 15-year rule in the state.
