CM Biren said that the Manipur government strongly condemned the assassination. He termed it as “barbaric, cowardly action” done by “terrorists”. He also assured that no one will be spared, be it politicians or CSOs.
TFM Report
Two days after the abduction and brutal assassination of Athuan Abonmai, Manipur chief minister N Biren Singh admitted the fact that there were security lapses when the brutal incident happened. He also “condemned” himself as the home minister and apologized to the people of the state for security lapses.
Briefing media persons at the Chief Minister’s Secretariat, CM Biren said that the Manipur government strongly condemned the assassination and termed it as “barbaric, cowardly action” perpetrated by “terrorists”. He also assured that no one will be spared in the case, be it politicians or CSOs. Not just those who killed Athuan, but also those who were involved in his abduction will not be spared, he added.
Replying to queries, CM admitted that NSCN (I-M), who is holding peace talks with the Government of India, is the suspected group behind the assassination. The ceasefire between the government of India and NSCN (I-M) does not cover Manipur, he said while adding, “I cannot deny that there may be camps in the state”. He also assured that if any groups who are in a ceasefire agreement with the GoI are involved in the incident, the case will be forwarded to the National Investigation Agency (NIA).
CM Biren further informed that as many as 16 police personnel have been identified and suspended and they will be investigated to find out if there was any collusion with the culprits. Combing operation in Tamenglong is underway by a huge security force and it will continue till all the culprits are captured and booked, he added.
Sharing the grief of the bereaved family and the people, CM Biren also assured special ex-gratia and even a suitable government job. The family will be consulted in this regard and the government will take proper decision on it, he assured.