Security Forces often face multiple challenges :: Developments related to Leimakhong in Manipur is matter of concern -- "It is vital for all stakeholders to support Army"

"....It is vital for all stakeholders to support the Indian Army"

 Duty and Distrust: Challenge for Security Forces in Leimakhong

Leimakhong Military Station (LMS), situated approximately 20 kilometers from Imphal, is a unique hub of cosmopolitan culture, where individuals from diverse communities, including Meiteis, Kukis, and Nagas, coexist peacefully. 

Despite the ongoing ethnic conflicts in the region over the past 18 months, LMS has largely remained a tranquil area, with only minor incidents reported. 

Officials posted there would seldom take phone calls from journalists in Delhi.

Yet, eyewitness accounts do reach Lutyen's city.

There are numerous construction sites, shops and other places where people from various communities are seen working together.

Of course, the 57 Mountain Division of the Indian Army, based at Leimakhong, has been instrumental in maintaining stability and serving as a bastion of hope for both the violence-hit Manipur state and the local residents. 

Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh has himself come under pressure and thus he has asked the Army to take steps to trace the 56-year-old man who has been missing since November 25 from Kangpokpi district.

The 'disappearance' of Mr. Laishram Kamalbabu, a supervisor for a contractor with the Military Engineering Services (MES), has raised concerns and cast unwarranted aspersions on the conduct of uniformed people. 

However, it has to be noted that jumping to any conclusion on such a sensitive matter is always avoidable. 

Having said that we may underline that even for senior officials in the forces and military camps, the news of Kamalbabu's disappearance is indeed troubling.

One eyewitness account says "understanding the geographical context" of LMS is hence advisable.

The military station encompasses a 14-kilometer boundary with several villages located in close proximity. The infrastructure layout separates residential areas from public utilities like schools, allowing for civilian thoroughfare through LMS. 

Thus, private vehicles and individuals can pass through its gates on a daily basis for their routine activities. 

On November 25, 2024, when Mr. Kamalbabu was reported missing, the Army promptly sealed all entrances and initiated an extensive search operation that same evening. 

Over 2,000 troops, along with drones, tracker dogs, intelligence resources, and helicopters, were deployed to locate him.

The Army has committed to conducting a thorough and impartial investigation and has invited the Manipur Police to lead this inquiry while fully cooperating with them. 

Senior officials from the Indian Army have met with community leaders and elders of communities to assure them that all available resources are being utilized to trace Mr. Kamalbabu.

However, the steps taken by the Army have led to discomfort to some, who staged a protest against the strict actions taken by armed forces.

Thus, despite fulfilling its duty to ensure safety and security, the Indian Army faces criticism from different community factions—one accusing it of responsibility for Mr. Kamalbabu's disappearance while another claims it is imposing strict measures that hinder their movement.

At this critical juncture, it is vital for all stakeholders to support the Indian Army in its efforts to resolve this situation effectively while hoping for the safe return of Mr. Kamalbabu.

Talk to senior commanders - they say the focus should remain on facilitating a thorough investigation without allowing tensions to escalate further within the community.

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