Commandos of the Manipur Police have been engaged in a fierce battle with insurgents in several areas of the state that have been affected by ethnic violence. The gunfights have been ongoing for over eight hours, according to sources. Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh informed reporters that they had received reports of “40 terrorists” being killed.
Singh stated that the terrorists, armed with M-16 and AK-47 assault rifles, as well as sniper guns, have been targeting civilians. They have reportedly entered several villages to set homes on fire. The state government, with the assistance of the army and other security forces, has taken strong action against the insurgents. Singh claimed that approximately 40 terrorists have been shot dead.
The Chief Minister emphasized that the terrorists have been targeting unarmed civilians. He characterized the conflict as one between armed terrorists attempting to destabilize Manipur and the state government, supported by the central government.
According to sources, the insurgents simultaneously launched attacks in five areas in and around the Imphal Valley at 2 am. These areas include Sekmai, Sugnu, Kumbi, Phayeng, and Serou. Gunfights are reportedly still underway in additional areas, with unclaimed bodies reportedly found on the streets.
The gunfight in Sekmai has concluded, although further details have not been provided, according to sources. Doctors at the Regional Institute of Medical Sciences (RIMS) in Imphal stated that they have received 10 injured individuals from the gunfight in Phayeng.
Sources reported that Khumanthem Kennedy, a 27-year-old farmer, was killed in Bishenpur’s Chandonpokpi after being hit by multiple bullets. His body is being taken to RIMS, and there are concerns about additional casualties. Kennedy leaves behind his wife and infant son.
Singh condemned the recent surge in violent attacks on civilians on the outskirts of Imphal Valley, particularly during Minister of State Nityanand Rai’s peace mission to Manipur.
Over 25 Kuki insurgent groups have signed a tripartite “suspension of operations” (SoO) agreement with the central and state governments. According to the SoO rules, the insurgents are supposed to be confined to designated camps identified by the government, with their weapons securely locked away and regularly monitored.
Home Minister Amit Shah is scheduled to visit Manipur tomorrow and has appealed to both the Meiteis and the Kukis to maintain calm, and peace, and work towards restoring normalcy. Army Chief General Manoj Pande visited the state recently to review the security situation.
The ongoing ethnic violence between the Meiteis, who reside in and around the Imphal valley, and the Kuki tribe, who settled in the hills, has resulted in over 70 deaths since clashes began on May 3.
Furthermore, Manipur has been without internet connectivity for over 25 days, exacerbating the challenges faced by the people during this volatile situation.
