From violence-hit Manipur 676 Nagaland residents evacuated

KOHIMA: 676 residents from Nagaland were evacuated from violence-hit Manipur.

Evacuees Nagaland residents were evacuated from Manipur on Sunday.
After a joint operation by Assam Rifles and Nagaland Police personnel, the civilians were evacuated from Manipur to Kohima.

Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio has expressed happiness over the “safe return of people from Nagaland”.
Nagaland CM Neiphiu Rio said, “I commend all those involved in coordinating the process and the paramilitary forces, especially the Assam Rifles, for their partnership with the state government in ensuring the return of our people from Manipur. I express my appreciation.”
“A meticulously planned and executed multi-agency rescue operation led by a Brigadier from the Inspector General Action Request (IGAR) headquarters of the Assam Rifles in Kohima, which involved two days of movement, led to a safe evacuation. The process, which started yesterday, has been completed today.” The official statement said.
It added: “A total of 676 Naga civilians were brought safely to the custody of their loved ones this afternoon.”

Meanwhile, security forces have so far rescued around 23,000 civilians, who have been sheltered in military cantonments across Manipur.
According to officials, at least 54 people have lost their lives in the violence in Manipur since May 3.

Union Minister Kiren Rijiju had recently said that the violence erupting in Manipur was “extremely unfortunate” and the government was taking necessary steps and all possible measures.