In a troubling incident, armed rioters opened fire on security forces in Manipur’s Kangpokpi district on Thursday morning. The soldiers were en route to a village following reports of unprovoked firing when they came under attack, according to an army spokesperson. The troops responded in a calibrated manner, and there are unconfirmed reports of casualties among the armed rioters.
The Indian Army’s Spear Corps took to Twitter to provide details of the incident. They stated that the troops were heading towards village Haraothel to prevent the escalation of violence after armed rioters carried out unprovoked firing at 5:30 am. While en route to the site, the security forces encountered effective fire from the rioters. However, they responded in a calibrated manner to prevent collateral damage. Swift action by the troops led to the cessation of firing, and additional columns were deployed to the area. The situation is being closely monitored as large crowds have reportedly gathered at the spot.
This incident adds to the ongoing ethnic clashes in Manipur, which began on May 3 in Churachandpur town. The clashes erupted after tribal Kuki groups protested against a proposed court-ordered change to the state’s reservation matrix, granting scheduled tribe (ST) status to the Meitei community. The violence has resulted in the death of at least 115 people and the displacement of nearly 40,000 individuals. The ethnic fault lines in the state have deepened, forcing thousands to flee their homes and seek refuge in jungles, often crossing state borders.
Furthermore, the situation is compounded by the looting of approximately 3,500 weapons by mobs over the past month, as estimated by state police. These weapons have been used by rioters in multiple instances, posing additional challenges for the security forces. Additionally, there have been reports of women-led mobs interfering with the work of security forces.
The army recently released a video showcasing visuals from various operations and making four serious allegations. They claim that women activists have been aiding rioters in escaping, interfering in operations during the day and night, obstructing the movement of logistics, and even digging up the entry to the Assam Rifles camp to cause delays.
The situation in Manipur remains tense, and efforts are being made to restore peace and stability in the affected areas. Security forces are working diligently to address the challenges posed by armed rioters and maintain law and order in the region.
Sources By Agencies
