IMPHAL, August 13 : Frisking and checking by State security forces have increased ahead of 67th Independence Day celebrations.
Independence Day observation in Manipur has always been boycotted by various revolutionary groups of Manipur. Since the boycott, Independence Day celebrations have been minimal in the State.
Thought State security forces have beefed up security, a full-fledged celebration had never been possible since the imposition of the boycott.
India got its independence in 1947 while Manipur was merged into the Indian Union only in 1949. On the charge that Manipur was annexed into the Indian Union, the revolutionary parties of Manipur have been boycotting the Independence Day celebrations in Manipur.
On the other hand, Independence Day is celebrated each year amidst tight security within the short distance between Kangla Fort and First Manipur Rifles Ground.
Manipur Patriots’ Day falls on 13th August every year just two days ahead of the Independence Day. Both the days are celebrated with all the VVIPs of Manipur including the Governor, Chief Minister and Deputy CM of the State in attendance.
Prior to Independence Day, traffic regulations for passenger vehicles have been differently regularised creating chaotic situation in the traffic.
Patriots’ Day is observed in many parts of Manipur by various local clubs. Many of the clubs also organised cleanliness drives to commemorate Patriots’ Day.
Our Bishnupur Correspondent adds: A search operation in connection with the coming Independence Day celebration was conducted at Moirang Sribol Leikai, Bishnupur District today.
The operation was headed by dy SP (cdo) N John and OC Moirang PS S Surjaboro.
Seven non-locals, five bail-outs and three suspects who were without proper identifications were picked up during the search operation conducted from 4.30am to 6.15 am.