In a significant operational visit aimed at evaluating the ongoing security situation, Lieutenant General Abhijit S Pendharkar, General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the Indian Army’s Spear Corps, conducted a comprehensive review of Army formations stationed in Manipur. This visit comes amid a backdrop of persistent ethnic violence between the Meitei and Kuki communities in the state, which has claimed over 200 lives and forced thousands to flee their homes since May 2023.
During his assessment, Lt Gen Pendharkar engaged directly with field commanders and personnel, scrutinizing their readiness to address emerging security challenges. He praised the soldiers for their professionalism and ability to maintain peace in a climate marked by complexity and sensitivity. Emphasizing the need for mission readiness, he instructed the formations to remain vigilant and adaptable to swiftly changing circumstances, particularly in areas prone to conflict.
The Spear Corps, also known as the III Corps, is strategically based under the Eastern Command, playing a vital role in the defense of India’s northeastern borders. Historically, the Corps has been at the forefront of counter-insurgency and border security operations, showcasing its effectiveness during crucial events like the 1962 Battle of Walong, as well as more recent anti-insurgency campaigns in Nagaland, Arunachal Pradesh, and now, Manipur. The current ethnic tensions have placed substantial strain on security forces, necessitating a collaborative approach among the Indian Army, Assam Rifles, and local law enforcement to restore order.
In recent operations, security forces have successfully recovered more than 35 illegal firearms, significant amounts of ammunition, and other military materials from areas afflicted by violence. These coordinated efforts highlight the Indian Army’s proactive stance in neutralizing threats and stabilizing volatile environments. Lt Gen Pendharkar’s visit reinforces the Army’s strategic commitment to protect civilians, support civil authorities, and create conditions conducive to peace and reconciliation.
Since taking command of the Spear Corps in August 2024, Lt Gen Pendharkar has brought extensive expertise in high-altitude warfare, counter-terrorism, and border management, drawn from his previous roles in Jammu and Kashmir and along the Line of Control. His leadership is regarded as crucial during a period when Manipur is facing heightened social unrest and ethnic division.
The Indian Army’s continued engagement on the ground and its humanitarian assistance efforts signify its role as a stabilizing force in the Northeast. The presence of the Corps Commander in the conflict area serves as both a morale booster for troops and a reassuring signal to local communities, reinforcing the Army’s impartial and enduring commitment to maintaining peace and unity throughout the region.
