Manipur continues to remain tense as five people, including two children, have been killed since April 7, but no arrests have been made so far. The lack of action has triggered widespread protests across the state, especially in valley districts.
The situation worsened after a deadly blast in Tronglaobi village of Bishnupur killed two siblings. The children, whose father serves in the Border Security Force, were asleep when an explosive device hit their home.
A senior government official said, “The attackers are still unidentified, and we have not received any CCTV footage that could help identify them.”
Blocked Roads Delay Investigation
Authorities said the investigation by the National Investigation Agency (NIA) has been affected due to a 12-day blockade on the Bishnupur–Churachandpur road.
“No civil supplies are coming from Imphal side due to the blockade. Even the NIA team has not been able to reach Churachandpur for investigation,” the official added.
Essential goods are now being routed through Assam and Mizoram, further highlighting the disruption caused by the ongoing unrest.
Protests Turn Violent, Clashes with Security Forces
Anger over the killings has led to massive protests across districts like Imphal East and Imphal West. Thousands of people have taken to the streets demanding immediate arrests.
Night rallies were organised in several areas, including Kakching and Koirengei. In many places, protesters clashed with security forces, who used tear gas to control the situation.
Civil society groups such as the All Manipur United Clubs Organisation and COCOMI have demanded strict action against those responsible for the attack.
Multiple Killings Raise Security Concerns
Apart from the children’s deaths, other violent incidents have also been reported. A BSF jawan was killed in firing in Ukhrul district, while two civilians, including a retired soldier, were shot dead in a militant ambush on a highway.
Officials said automatic weapons, possibly AK-series rifles, were used in the attacks, indicating the involvement of trained militant groups.
Earlier, three people were also killed when security forces opened fire at a mob attempting to loot an armoury in a sensitive buffer zone.
Communal Tensions and Blame Game
The violence has further deepened tensions between communities in the state. Some Meitei groups have blamed Kuki-Zo insurgent groups for the attacks, though no official confirmation has been made.
Manipur is home to three major communities — Meitei, Naga, and Kuki-Zo — and has been facing ethnic violence since May 2023, which has already claimed over 250 lives.
Government Says Violence May Be “Instigated”
Deputy Chief Minister Losii Dikho suggested that the recent violence could be an attempt to disturb peace.
“There is speculation that the violence is being instigated,” he said, adding that outreach efforts by Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh to different communities have been receiving positive response.
Shutdown and Growing Public Anger
A shutdown called by civil society groups has disrupted normal life across the valley districts. Markets, schools, and transport services remain largely closed, while protests continue to grow.
Protesters have warned that agitation will intensify if the accused are not arrested soon.
