Manipur observes 68th Republic Day amidst tight security

The 68th Republic Day was celebrated in all nine districts of Manipur on Thursday despite a boycott call by militant outfits.

However, there were reports of two bomb blasts taking place in Mantripukhri and Pishumthong respectively.

The call for boycott and dawn-to-dusk shutdown was given by the banned underground militant organisations, the United Naga Council and others.

Dr. Najma Heptulla, Governor of Manipur, was the chief guest at the main function held at Kangla, where over 97 contingents, including 44 from schools and colleges, NCC, 19 cultural troupes, 12 bands, the Manipur Fire Service and 12 tableaux participated in the parade and display.

However, almost all parts of the state wore a deserted look as people preferred to stay indoors. No vehicles except those exempted by the banned organisations from the general strike were noticed.

All shops and commercial establishments also were shut on the occasion of Republic Day being a national holiday.

Police had beefed up security measures throughout the state. However, there was no report of major arrest or recovery of arms and explosives.

Governor Heptullah decorated two Manipur Fire Service personnel with the Fire Service Medal.