IMPHAL, August 19: Tensions in the border town of Moreh in Chandel district has been brought under control today with leaders of both communities involved in yesterday`™s clash resolving to prevent similar flare ups which could snowball into a communal flare up in the future.
Swiftly responding to the August 18 incident, a ministerial team along with a team of media persons led by minister Works and Transport, Dr Kh Ratan Kumar Singh, IFCD minister, Ngamthang Haokip and Tengnoupal MLA, DK Korungthang visited Moreh to take stock of the situation.
In an attempt to pacify the prevailing situation, the team met with leaders of both communities including representatives of Meitei Council Moreh, ACODOM, Hill Tribal Council, UCM, Kuki Innpi, ICHAM UNMM, AMUCO, in a closed door meeting at the Moreh Trade Centre.
The meeting was also attended by IGP, Manipur T Guite, DIG, Dr S Ibocha and Chandel SP, N Herojit.
Speaking to media persons after the meeting, Works minister K Ratankumar, revealed that both sides tabled their charters of demands regarding the incident.
It is learnt that the demands include resignation of additional SP Moreh, RK Khomdon for being incompetent while discharging his duty, compensating for the damages inflicted during the clash etc.
In his reply, the minister assured to convey the grievances of both the parties to the Chief Minister and Home minister for immediate action adding that he will recommend a long term policy or plan to prevent similar instances in the future.
As an immediate measure to contain the situation, a combined team of security forces including LED IGP Manipur, DIG along with additional forces of BSF, MR are currently stationed in Moreh.
The minister further revealed that a strong instruction has also been given to the DC Chandel to assess the loss inflicted during the clash.
Meanwhile, according to information culled out from the spot, many residents especially victims of the clash lamented the alleged inaction of 11 AR personnel and State police force, who remained spectators during the time of violent incident.
The victims further expressed their apprehension that unless law and order is guaranteed, communal harmony in Moreh will become impossible.