On September 16, Union Home Minister Amit Shah announced that the government would open Kendriya Police Kalyan Bhandars (KPKBs) to the people, hence providing basic goods in the violent state of Manipur at reasonable prices. The action aims to aid locals impacted by the continuing ethnic strife.
“The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) is initiating a program to deliver supplies to the people of Manipur at cheap costs, in keeping with PM @shrinarendramodi Ji’s commitment. As of September 17, 2024, the general public will have access to the Kendriya Police Kalyan Bhandars”, according to a tweet made by Shah on X (previously Twitter). The Kendriya Police Kalyan Bhandars, formerly exclusive to law enforcement and military officials, would soon be available to all Manipur residents. Shah further declared that in addition to the 21 centres currently operating, 16 more would be opened around the state. To provide coverage throughout the state’s unique geographical and ethnic terrain, these new centres will be evenly dispersed, with eight located in the valley regions and eight in the hill parts.
Beginning in early September, Kuki terrorist organisations attacked Meitei communities and security personnel using long-range RPGs and drone bombs. Since then, the Northeastern state has been reeling from a slew of violent incidents. At least three persons, including a woman, were killed and other civilians were injured in Kuki gangs’ repeated attacks on Meitei villages in Jiribam, Bishnupur districts. Manipur student protestors have called for swift action against the Kuki terrorist gangs behind the horrific attacks. Throughout the previous fifteen days, Kuki gangs have also repeatedly and deliberately targeted Manipur police teams and CRPF camps.
The decision to allow the public access to police ration stores was made amid the ongoing ethnic unrest that has engulfed Manipur since May 2023. Over 200 people have died as a result of violent battles between two groups; many more have been injured or forced to flee. During the fighting, about 60,000 individuals were internally displaced. The disruption of necessary commodities and services has significantly impacted daily living due to the turmoil.
