Imphal: A fresh outbreak of violence in Manipur’s Jiribam district on Saturday morning has resulted in the deaths of six individuals, according to media reports. The violence erupted after a series of attacks allegedly carried out by Kuki militants.
The conflict began when militants raided Nungchappi village, about 229 km from Imphal, killing 63-year-old Yurembam Kulendra Singha. This incident followed the killing of an elderly man from the Meitei community in Moirang town. The man was reportedly struck by a rocket-propelled bomb, which police suspect was launched by Kuki insurgents.
The violence continued with a gunfight between armed groups from the Meitei community and Kuki tribes, who are also known as “village defence volunteers.” The clash resulted in the death of five more individuals. The Jiribam Superintendent of Police and a team were dispatched to the area but came under attack; they managed to regain control after a strong response.
Inspector General of Police (Intelligence) K Kabib confirmed that the Kuki militants had targeted fringe areas along the Bishnupur and Churachandpur border. In retaliation, security forces conducted combing operations and destroyed two militant bunkers. A subsequent rocket attack from the hills at Moirang resulted in the death of a senior citizen and injuries to six others.
Last month, Jiribam hosted peace talks between Meitei and Hmar leaders, as well as security forces, resulting in a joint commitment to peace. However, Kuki groups in Churachandpur rejected the talks, alleging that the participants did not represent their interests. The Hmar Inpui also dismissed the peace initiative, accusing leaders of capitulating to a divisive government under Chief Minister N. Biren Singh.
In response to recent drone attacks by suspected Kuki insurgents, the security forces have implemented an anti-drone system and a multi-layered strategy involving aerial surveillance and search operations. A separate team is monitoring social media to identify those inciting violence. Several militant bunkers in the foothills have been demolished.
On Friday evening, a mob attempted to seize weapons from Manipur Rifles camps in Imphal but was repelled by security forces using tear gas and blank rounds. Two police officers, Inspector Kh Henery and Constable Issac Gangmei, were injured in the incident and are receiving medical treatment.
Residents of Imphal valley have expressed frustration with the state and central governments’ response to the attacks, asserting that civilians are left to defend themselves despite the presence of over 50,000 central force personnel. Imphal resident M. Nirmala Devi highlighted the continued threat to safety, citing recent attacks on both a Meitei woman and an elderly man.
