In a tragic turn of events, Manipur is once again plunged into violence following a deadly gunfight between suspected militants and security forces in the Jiribam district. The violence claimed the lives of two elderly civilians whose bodies were found in the aftermath of the clash. The incident has left the state in shock, with authorities now searching for six missing individuals, including women and children, who vanished during the violence.
On Monday, suspected militants launched a series of violent attacks, setting multiple shops on fire, and opening fire at a local police station and a nearby CRPF camp. The 45-minute gunbattle that followed led to the deaths of at least 10 militants, according to Manipur Police. Tragically, the incident also claimed the lives of two elderly men, Laishram Balen and Maibam Kesho, whose charred remains were discovered during a search operation. The police suspect they were killed in the fires set by the militants during the attack.
Search for Missing Civilians and Growing Tensions in Manipur
Authorities have intensified efforts to locate six missing civilians, including three women and three minors, who disappeared amidst the chaos of the gunfight. The ongoing violence has prompted ethnic organizations in the region to call for an 11-hour shutdown in the hill districts of Manipur, protesting the deaths of 10 people in clashes with paramilitary forces.
The violence has brought life to a standstill in the affected areas. Schools and businesses are closed, and the streets are empty as residents remain confined to their homes. Over the last few days, heavy gunfire has been reported on the outskirts of the Imphal Valley and surrounding hills, adding to the atmosphere of fear and uncertainty.
Dr. IK Muivah, the IG (Operations) of Manipur Police, shared details of the attack at a press conference, revealing that the militants used sophisticated weapons such as RPGs, AK-47s, INSAS rifles, and SLRs during the assault. The CRPF forces mounted a strong retaliation, and the militants eventually withdrew after heavy losses.
The Aftermath: Impact on Local Communities
The bodies of the two elderly men, members of the Meitei community, were discovered in the debris of Jakuradhor Karong. According to the police, the militants set fire to shops in the area, leading to the tragic deaths. The violence has further escalated tensions in an already volatile region, with growing concerns over the safety of civilians and the increasing number of missing persons.
As the investigation continues, the authorities are under immense pressure to address the escalating violence and restore peace in the state. The situation underscores the urgent need for a comprehensive approach to resolving the longstanding ethnic tensions and instability in Manipur.
