According to reliable media reports, given the unprecedented burning situation prevailing in Manipur, the Central Government invoked Section 355 in the state to control the situation.

Section 355 is part of the Emergency Provisions in Part XVIII of the Indian Constitution, from Article 352 to 360. It empowers the central government to take all necessary measures to protect the country from internal instability and external aggression.

Police and security personnel secured the Imphal-Churachandpur road as part of the measures.

After a vigilante conference on Thursday, the Manipur state government called on the people to immediately stop the violence and help maintain peace and harmony.

The Chief Minister assured that since yesterday, the state government had been closely monitoring the developments around the clock and responding effectively in coordination with the Indian Army, Assam Rifles, CRPF and BSF deployed in the state.

CM Biren Singh also met ministers and MLAs from the Naga community and called on them to mediate.

He also appealed to the people of Manipur to refrain from spreading baseless rumours, fake photos and videos, and unverified information that could exacerbate the current crisis. He also appealed that attacks on religious places like temples, churches etc., should be stopped immediately, and the crisis should not be given a communal colour.

CM said that the people of Manipur had lived together as one people for centuries, and the need of the moment is to maintain this peaceful coexistence and leave a better state for the benefit of our younger generations.

The government has appointed Ashutosh Sinha of ADGP (Intelligence) as the General Operations Commander to control the situation and bring the state back to normal.

According to a government order issued on Thursday, Ashutosh Sinha will work under the direction and supervision of Manipur security adviser Kuldeep Singh.

The order states that the relevant magistrate will detail the required administrative magistrate/special administrative magistrate when required and requisitioned.