Manipur relieves senior SP Nectar Sanjenbam amid Jiribam confrontation inquiry

With Manipur initiating an inquiry into the confrontation in Jiribam on Sunday, Col. (Retd) Nectar Sanjenbam, Senior SP (Combat), has been relieved of his duties.

In an official order, it was stated: “In view of conducting a detailed inquiry into the reported incident of confrontation between the Special Commando Team led by Col. (Retd) Nectar Sanjenbam, Senior SP (Combat), and the protestors near the Jiribam Police Station on Sunday, which led to bullet injuries for two protestors—one of whom succumbed to the injuries—the Governor of Manipur has constituted an Inquiry Committee. The committee will include Kabip K, IGP (Intelligence), and Ningshen Worngam, DIG (Range-III). The inquiry will be initiated immediately, and the services of Col. (Retd) Nectar Sanjenbam as Senior SP (Combat) shall be discontinued."

The order further stated:

“The Committee is tasked with inquiring into the cause of the incident, the circumstances leading to it, and any contributing factors. It will also investigate potential foul play on the part of any individual, including public authorities, that may have contributed to the occurrence. The Committee shall submit its findings within 30 days.”

The inquiry follows widespread violence and mob attacks in the valley districts, including Imphal East and Imphal West, that began on November 16. The unrest was triggered by the recovery of six bodies of missing persons in Jiribam district on November 15 and 16. In response, Chief Secretary Vineet Joshi ordered the suspension of mobile internet and data services in seven districts for two days, starting Saturday.