Imphal : Chief Minister N. Biren Singh expressed strong condemnation against the brutal killing of the two students namely Phijam Hemajit and Hijam Linthoingambi, who went missing since 6^th July this year, terming it as a heinous crime. He maintained that the culprit would not be spared and stringent action would be taken against them as per law.

The Chief Minister was briefing the media at the Chief Minister’s Secretariat today. He continued that the case regarding the missing of the two teenagers was handed over to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) on 28^th August, 2023.

The Chief Minister informed that he had talked with Union Home Minister Amit Shah regarding the case and added that the case is being taken seriously.

He continued that Special Director, CBI Ajay Bhatnagar along with other 5 officials had landed in the State today and had started the investigation. He appealed to all the people of the State to have trust in seriousness taken by the government regarding the case.

N. Biren stated that the Government knew that a large number of people had turned out at roads in different places out of emotion and anger, after seeing the viral photographs of the two students.

He instructed the security forces to have maximum restraint while controlling the mob and added that action would be initiated, if security personnel use excessive action against the public especially the students in controlling their agitation.

The Chief Minister sought support and cooperation of the public in handling the current crisis and restoring peace in the State.

N. Biren informed that 25 companies of central forces and 2 companies of Rapid Action Force had been deployed in 23 places of Churachandpur District. He continued that a process had been taken up to deploy 3 companies of central force in Behiang, maintaining that the Government is taking up steps to enforce law and order.

Concluding his briefing, the Chief Minister informed the State Government is in continuous contact with the Union Home Minister regarding the current situation in the State. He maintained that the State Government has been taking all steps to restore peace under the supervision of the Prime Minister and Union Home Minister.

Works Minister Govindas Konthoujam, Water Resources Minister Awangbow Newmai, Information and Public Relations Minister Dr. Sapam Ranjan, Transport Minister Khasim Vashum, MLA of Thangmeiband AC Khumukcham Joykisan, MLA of Moirang AC Thongam Shanti and Chief Secretary Dr. Vineet Joshi also attended the press briefing.