Fresh Violence Kills Four in Manipur

Fresh violence in Manipur has claimed at least four lives in two separate incidents, triggering angry protests in Imphal and renewed demands for decisive government action. Demonstrators carried the bodies of two victims to Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh’s residence, accusing the authorities of failing to ensure civilian safety. Security forces used tear gas to disperse protesters, disrupting normal activity in parts of the state capital.

A Fragile Security Environment

Manipur has experienced prolonged ethnic violence since May 2023, particularly between Meitei and Kuki-Zo communities. Despite security deployments and administrative interventions, tensions, armed attacks and insecurity in vulnerable areas continue to challenge efforts to restore normalcy.

The latest incidents underline how ordinary activities and local gatherings can become flashpoints in an environment marked by territorial anxieties, armed groups and deep mistrust.

Two Incidents Leave Four Dead

The first incident occurred on the night of October 18 during a musical event in Khangabok, an area inhabited by Meitei and Pangal communities. Stone-throwing and gunfire injured several people, including a 24-year-old who subsequently died.

The second attack took place on October 19 near Nongshum village in Imphal East, close to the Kangpokpi border. Suspected armed men allegedly opened fire on Meitei villagers who had gone into the hills to collect firewood.

Three people were killed and others injured, while three people were reported missing. The deceased were identified as Arubam Ronil, Lairenlakpam Inaobi and Kshetrimayum Sushil, all Meitei civilians from villages in Imphal East.

The attack has intensified fears among residents living along vulnerable areas adjoining the hills, where civilian movement remains exposed to security risks.

Bodies Outside CM’s Residence Ignite Public Anger

In a dramatic protest, residents brought two victims’ bodies to the Chief Minister’s high-security bungalow in Babupara, Imphal, and placed them outside the main gate. They demanded accountability and immediate action against those responsible.

Police removed the bodies and used tear gas and a lathi-charge after protesters entered the premises. The bodies were subsequently shifted to the Jawaharlal Nehru Institute of Medical Sciences, while authorities tightened security around the VIP zone.

By October 21, the Native People Committee Manipur’s 48-hour statewide general strike had entered its second day, with road blockades and sit-ins disrupting public activity. Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge also questioned the Centre over continuing deaths, displacement and conditions in relief camps.

Restoring Security Must Become the Government’s Priority

The immediate challenge extends beyond controlling protests. Authorities must identify the attackers, trace the missing persons, protect vulnerable settlements and prevent retaliatory violence.

Restoring public confidence will require visible action, credible investigations and demonstrable civilian protection. Without these measures, fresh killings risk deepening existing divisions and prolonging instability in Manipur, making lasting peace increasingly difficult to achieve.

(With agency inputs)