Imphal: Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh announced an ex-gratia of ₹10 lakh each for the families of two migrant workers from Bihar who were tragically killed in Kakching district on Sunday.
The victims, Dasharat Kumar (17) and Sunalal Kumar (18), both hailing from Rajwahi village in Bihar’s Gopalganj district, were fatally shot while cycling home from their workplace.
Describing the incident as a “brutal killing” and an act of terrorism, Biren Singh condemned the violence and expressed his heartfelt condolences to the victims’ families.
The Chief Minister hinted at a possible larger conspiracy aimed at destabilizing the state and assured that the perpetrators would be brought to justice. He also indicated the possibility of transferring the case to the National Investigation Agency (NIA) if necessary. “We must stand together against these destructive forces,” Singh stated, emphasizing the need for collective vigilance.
Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar also expressed profound grief over the deaths, announcing an ex-gratia of ₹2 lakh for each family. He instructed the social welfare and labour departments to ensure the victims’ families receive all eligible benefits under existing welfare schemes. Additionally, he directed officials to arrange for the bodies to be transported to their native village for proper last rites.
The victims were discovered with gunshot wounds in Keirak, along National Highway 137(A). According to local police, unidentified assailants attacked the workers as they cycled home. Though rushed to a nearby private hospital, both were declared dead on arrival.
The motive behind the attack remains unclear, and law enforcement authorities have launched a detailed investigation. The incident has heightened concerns over the safety of migrant workers in the region, with calls for increased security measures to prevent further violence.
The tragic killings have drawn widespread condemnation, with leaders from both states vowing to ensure justice for the victims and their grieving families.