Imphal: Manipur Chief Minister N. Biren Singh has strongly denounced an indiscriminate attack allegedly carried out by Kuki militants in the villages of Sanasabi and Thamnapokpi in Imphal East district on December 27.
The assault, which involved gunfire and explosives, left several civilians and security personnel injured, intensifying tension in the area.
Calling the incident a “cowardly and unprovoked assault on innocent lives,” Singh took to social media platform X to express his outrage. He labeled the attack a significant threat to the peace and harmony of the region and reassured the public that swift action was being taken. Additional security forces have been deployed to restore order, and those injured are receiving medical care, he added.
Tensions escalated in the peripheral areas of Sanasabi and Yaingangpokpi as armed miscreants continued intermittent attacks from the hilltops of Kangpokpi throughout the day. Security forces engaged in heavy crossfire with the attackers to contain the situation. Explosive devices and gunfire targeted Meitei-inhabited areas, forcing several residents to vacate their homes and seek safety elsewhere.
Among the injured was a 37-year-old policeman, K. Haridash, who sustained a bullet wound to his left shoulder. He was rushed to the Jawaharlal Nehru Institute of Medical Sciences for treatment. Another civilian also suffered injuries during the assault. Authorities have intensified security measures and remain on high alert to prevent further escalation and ensure civilian safety.
Chief Minister Singh urged citizens to stay united and maintain calm during these trying times. He also emphasized the importance of enhanced coordination between central forces and state police to effectively manage and respond to such incidents.