Security beefed up ahead of ‘VVIP visit’

By Our Staff Reporter
IMPHAL, Dec 9: In view of the proposed visit of President Droupadi Murmu to the State, security measures have been beefed up in and around Imphal.
Security forces have been carrying out massive search operations and intensified frisking and checking of vehicles in different parts of the State.
A combined team of BSF, Yaingangpokpi police station and Special Commando, Khabeisoi carried out a cordon and search operation at Yaingangpokpi Bazar early this morning.
More than 50 individuals were verified by security personnel during the search operation but there was no report of any arrest or detention.
Meanwhile, frisking and checking exercises have been intensified at Mantri-pukhri Bazar, Lamlong area, Keishampat, Singjamei, near Manipur University main gate and Kwakeithel Bazar.
Notably, CorCom and NRFM have called a total shutdown in the State during President Droupadi Murmu’s visit.  
Though an official announcement on the arrival of the President is yet to be made, hectic road repair work can be seen in some parts of Imphal.
Beautification works of the road median on the Airport road has also been taken up and welcome gates have started coming up along the said road stretch un at least three places.
Back on November 17, Chief of Army Staff, General Upendra Dwivedi had stated that President Droupadi Murmu might visit Manipur while stressing that normalcy had started returning in the State. Manipur is witnessing a slow but steady return of trust and optimism amongst the people, added Dwivedi had asserted.
To underline the point that normalcy was returning to Manipur, the Army chief recalled that the Shirui Lily Festival and the Durand Cup drew record crowds, showcasing the gradual return of normal life.
On December 8, BJP MLA Yumnam Premchand visited a relief centre set up for displaced Kuki folks at Litan in Ukhrul district, making it the first visit to an IDP camp set up for displaced Kuki folks by a Meitei MLA.
Some displaced persons have also started returning home located at the periphery areas.