Imphal: Amid the tense law and order situation in Manipur, the Nagaland government has evacuated 676 Naga civilians and students with the help of the Indian Army and Assam Rifles.

The operation, which lasted for two days, was a “meticulously planned & executed multi-agency rescue operation led by a Brigadier from Kohima based Assam Rifles IGAR HQ,” a statement said.

Manipur had been on the boil since May 3, after violence erupted following a protest rally organized by the All Tribal Students' Union, Manipur (ATSUM) against the Court order of the Manipur High Court which gave direction to the Manipur government to take a decision on the demand of the Meitei community to include them in the ST list.

“In a meticulously planned & executed multi-agency rescue operation led by a Brigadier from Kohima-based Assam Rifles IGAR HQ involving movement over two days, the safe evacuation process that commenced yesterday has been completed today. A total of 676 Naga civilians were safely brought to the confines of their loved ones today afternoon,” said an official statement.

The violence between the Meitei community residing in the Imphal Valley and the Kuki tribals who inhabit the hill districts has been curbed as the state government requisitioned Indian Army, Assam Rifles as well as RAF, BSF, and CRPF to aid the state police.

Life in Manipur is limping back to normal as many shops and markets opened shutters on Saturday and vehicles were seen plying on the roads amid increased security measures.