Manipur witnessed one of its deadliest days in a fortnight as clashes erupted along the Bishnupur-Churachandpur border. Six people, including a father-son duo, were killed, and 16 others were injured in the day-long mortar and grenade attacks. The escalating situation has led to a major combing operation by the Army and additional central forces being rushed to the state.
Violent Clashes Claim Lives
Unarmed villagers returning to guard their village were attacked in the Kwakta area of Bishnupur district, resulting in three deaths, including the father-son duo. Retaliatory attacks in neighboring villages added to the toll, with two more people killed and others injured.
Calls for Action and Protests
Amid the violence, protests erupted in Imphal, and BJP MLA Rajkumar Imo Singh criticized central security forces for alleged security lapses. The state’s law and order situation has prompted authorities to maintain curfew restrictions in Imphal East and Imphal West districts.
Ethnic Clashes Escalate
The clashes in Manipur are part of the long-standing ethnic tensions between the Meitei and Kuki communities. The demand for Scheduled Tribes (ST) status by the Meitei has sparked violent confrontations, leading to the loss of lives and displacement of thousands.
Ongoing Efforts to Restore Peace
Security forces have launched search operations and destroyed illegal bunkers in vulnerable areas to curb the violence. However, the situation remains tense, and authorities are striving to restore calm and prevent further casualties.
Summing it up
The recent escalation of violence in Manipur highlights the need for urgent measures to address the underlying tensions and promote peaceful coexistence among communities. All stakeholders must come together, engage in dialogue, and find sustainable solutions to end the cycle of violence and ensure the safety and well-being of the people in the region.
