Two days after N Biren Singh resigned as Manipur Chief Minister, the state government urged citizens to stay calm and not to fall prey to misinformation, unverified news and rumours that may disrupt peace and harmony or cause panic.
"It has also come to the notice of the government that certain unscrupulous individuals and groups may deliberately attempt to incite unrest, disrupt harmony and spread fear among the public using false information, inflammatory content or fabricated narratives. Such attempts are intended to create lawlessness, and the public is strongly advised not to give heed to such misinformation or incitement," a statement issued by Chief Secretary PK Singh read.
Singh's resignation came amid growing dissent within the state BJP over his handling of ethnic violence, an impending no-confidence motion, forensic examination of an inflammatory voice clip, and many others.
The Manipur government said a 24*7 control room has also been set up for verification of any such information.
"To ensure that people receive accurate information, the government has set up a control room, where citizens can verify any news or information they come across. The control room can be reached at 9485280419 and is operational 24x7," it said.
The Manipur government added that maintaining peace, and law and order is a collective responsibility, hence all residents must remain vigilant against those trying to create disturbances.
"Any attempt to incite violence or disrupt harmony will be dealt with strictly as per the law," the statement read.
It also urged community leaders, civil society organisations, religious leaders, student organisations, intellectuals and citizens to come together "to foster unity and work towards rebuilding trust amongst all communities. Let us prioritise peace, understanding and development for the betterment of our beloved state".
More than 250 people lost their lives and thousands rendered homeless in ethnic violence between Imphal Valley-based Meiteis and adjoining hills-based Kuki-Zo groups since May 2023.
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