Police file FIRs against WhatsApp groups in Manipur

Manipur Police have filed six FIRs against WhatsApp groups for spreading fake news. These groups are accused of creating fear and panic in Churachandpur district. The police warned that they would also take legal action against other channels spreading false information. Security forces are currently operating against armed groups in the region. In the last 24 hours, they arrested a member of the People's Liberation Army (PLA) and seized a large amount of weapons and ammunition. Additionally, three illegal bunkers were destroyed in Imphal East district. The FIRs are connected to recent violent incidents in Churachandpur. Tensions rose between the Hmar and Zomi communities after an assault on Richard Hmar, a leader of the Hmar community, on March 16. Violence escalated again on March 18 when Hmars confronted a Zomi group for displaying their flag. This resulted in clashes that led to the death of Lalropui Pakhuangte, a member of the Hmar community. The police are investigating the roles of the WhatsApp groups in spreading misinformation since March 17. They may also look into these groups' connections to earlier events that fueled the conflict.