No Encroachment On Properties Of Displaced People, Says Manipur Government

The Manipur government, citing a Supreme Court order, has asked people not to encroach on the properties of those who fled because of the ethnic violence, as this could aggravate the law and order situation.

In view of the five-month strife that started on May 3, approximately 70,000 men, women and children belonging to Meitei, Kuki-Zo and other communities have been displaced and are now sheltered in 350 camps set up in schools, government buildings and auditoriums.

Several thousands have sought refuge in neighbouring states, including Mizoram.

In an order on Tuesday, Manipur Commissioner (Home) T Ranjit Singh said the Supreme Court, responding to a petition, asked the state on September 25 to protect religious buildings from encroachment and damage or destruction.