Security, medical, food, accommodation and telecommunication needs for interaction with their kith and kin back home were met during the stay with Assam Rifles.

In another operation, Assam Rifles rescued 45 visually impaired students and supporting staff of Mission Blind School, Kakching, amidst the clashes in Manipur in the first week of May.

The public relations officer (Defence), Kohima and Imphal said that based on the request of K Parenag Kom, Principal of Mission Blind School, one security column of Assam Rifles was launched to rescue the stranded visually impaired children and supporting staff.

"They were safely extricated and escorted to Kakching garrison where they were provided solace, food and shelter. Finally, Assam Rifles in coordination with family members took the initiative of despatching these children back to their homes safely through dedicated columns on May 13," the PRO said.

A curfew was imposed on May 3 after violence broke out in Manipur. The State government clamped down on the use of the internet and mobile phones to ensure the spread of panic and false information is curtailed. Amid the demand of the Meitei for Scheduled Tribe status, a rally was organised by the All Tribals Students Union (ATSU) Manipur on May 3, which later turned violent.