03/08/2026
Manipur Eyes Commando Redeployment to Secure Highways Amid Extortion Surge
In a decisive move to restore law and order along its critical supply routes, the government of Manipur is actively considering redeploying state police commandos for Road Opening Patrol (ROP) duties on national highways. The announcement was made by Home Minister Govindas Konthoujam on Sunday, signaling a potential shift in security strategy.
Why This Move Matters
With extortion cases on the rise, particularly along the vital corridors of National Highway 37 (NH-37) and National Highway 2 (NH-2), the government is under increasing pressure to act. These highways serve as lifelines for transporting essential commodities, fuel, and supplies, making them prime targets for illegal activities.
The Strategy: Back to ROP Deployment
* Police commandos were previously deployed on highways for ROP duties
* Due to manpower shortages, these deployments were scaled down
* The government is now exploring ways to reintroduce and strengthen ROP presence
* Objective: Ensure safe passage for supply convoys and reduce extortion threats
Speaking on the issue, the Home Minister emphasized that restoring ROP duties could significantly deter criminal networks and bring relief to transporters and civilians dependent on uninterrupted supply chains.
Rising Concerns on the Ground
Transporters and local businesses have raised alarms over:
* Frequent extortion attempts targeting trucks and fuel carriers
* Increased risks along isolated highway stretches
* Delays and disruptions in essential supply deliveries
The proposed redeployment is seen as a critical step toward stabilizing the region’s economic and security landscape.
What’s Next?
While the plan is still under consideration, officials indicate that logistical adjustments and manpower allocation are being evaluated. If implemented, this could mark a strong crackdown on highway-based extortion and restore public confidence in state security mechanisms.
