Security measures in place for successful R-day despite boycott

IMPHAL, January 25: Security has been tightened in the entire greater Imphal area from this afternoon ahead of the 52nd Republic Day tomorrow, amidst the boycott called by a host of underground organisations. IRB, MR, CRPF and Manipur police personnel have been deployed at sensitive spots and to guard vital installations. Heavy patrolling by security personnel had already begun this morning all over the greater Imphal area. Security teams also conducted frisking of travelers and passersby at various points in the city and on major roads. It may be recalled that the Manipur People's Liberation Front, umbrella organisation of the UNLF, RPF and the PREPAK, has along with 12 other organisations of the Northeast region called for a boycott of tomorrows Republic Day. A general strike has also been called from 1 am to 6 pm tomorrow in this connection. According to official sources, all preparations for successful holding of the Republic Day celebrations, including the traditional parade, are complete. Most of the city roads have been decorated with flags and gales erected by various government departments. The Republic Day parade tomorrow will be commanded by Koijam Radheshyam, commandant of the 11 MR (IRB). The march past will begin from 1st MR ground from 8:30 am tomorrow morning. The marching contingents will proceed to the Kangla fort, where the Governor of Manipur Ved Prakash Marwah will take the salute. The Governor will also unfurl the national flag, inspect a guard of honour and distribute meritorious awards and medals to state police and fire service personnel. The contingents will proceed further either through the western Kangla gate and along the Kangla park road, Netyaipat Chuthek, and Jail road and back to the 1st MR grounds, or else through the northem gate, following the Koyathong Thangal Bazar-Paona Bazar route. The chief minister W Nipamacha Singh will give the vote of thanks when the contingents gather again at the 1st MR grounds. Formal celebration of Republic Day will also take place at various district headquarters with the respective DC's as chief guests.