Manipur Unrest: Fresh Violence Engulfs Imphal West, Two Houses Torched

Imphal, Manipur: In a disturbing turn of events, Fresh Violence Engulfs Imphal West district, leaving two houses engulfed in flames. The incident, which transpired on Wednesday night in New Keithelmanbi within the Patsoi police station jurisdiction, has raised concerns about the escalating tensions in the region.

According to authorities, the unsettling episode unfolded around 10 p.m. when unidentified miscreants unleashed a barrage of bullets before making a hasty escape. Swift response from security forces and fire services personnel successfully doused the flames, preventing further devastation.

Adding to the chaos, a group of Meitei women congregated in the area following the incident, seeking answers and justice. However, they were met with a stern response from security forces, who prevented them from advancing any further, as reported by PTI.

The situation remains fragile, prompting the deployment of additional security personnel to maintain control and curb further unrest.

This latest outbreak of violence is an unfortunate continuation of the clashes that began in Manipur on May 3. The initial turmoil erupted in Churachandpur town after tribal groups voiced their opposition to proposed changes in the state’s reservation matrix, particularly the inclusion of scheduled tribe (ST) status for the Meitei community.

Since then, the violence has spiraled, affecting various parts of the state where deep-seated ethnic divisions persist. Shockingly, the toll stands at a grim 175 lives lost and over 50,000 people displaced. The aftermath has left hundreds of homes in ashes, businesses in ruins, and educational pursuits disrupted. Moreover, places of worship have been reduced to rubble, and the state has endured months without internet connectivity.

In a disconcerting revelation, state government officials disclosed that nearly 4,500 weapons and approximately 650,000 rounds of ammunition have gone missing amidst the chaos. While the Manipur police and security forces have managed to recover 1,500 arms and about 15,000 pieces of ammunition, concerns over the remaining arsenal continue to linger.

Kuki groups in Manipur have raised allegations of bias against the state police and have called upon the Union government to intervene by retaining the presence of Assam Rifles to restore peace in the state. Notably, Assam Rifles operates under the jurisdiction of the Union government, while the Manipur Police reports to Chief Minister Biren Singh, a Meitei.

The situation in Manipur remains precarious, with tensions simmering beneath the surface, and the hope for lasting peace still elusive.