Northeast Desk, 24th April: In a concerning development, an IED explosion early on April 23 caused partial damage to a bridge on National Highway 2 in Manipur’s Kangpokpi district, leading to disruptions in traffic movement along the vital route.
The incident has raised alarms among local communities and authorities, prompting calls for immediate action to address the escalating violence. The Coordinating Committee on Manipur Integrity (COCOMI) has voiced its apprehension over the surge in violence, emphasizing the need for a thorough investigation into the matter.
Expressing solidarity with the affected populace, COCOMI demanded swift justice and urged the state government to transfer the case to the National Investigation Agency (NIA). This move aims to ensure a comprehensive probe into the incident and deliver justice to the approximately 3.5 million residents impacted by the violence.
The damaged bridge, serving as a crucial link between India and Myanmar, plays a pivotal role in facilitating trade and connectivity across Southeast Asia. Its disruption not only hampers local transportation but also jeopardizes regional commerce and relations.
Highlighting the gravity of the situation, COCOMI referenced past incidents of violence in the region, emphasizing the need for decisive action to address the underlying complexities. The organization condemned the attack in the strongest terms and underscored the urgency of delivering swift justice to restore peace and stability.
In response to the incident, the Kuki Student body promptly issued a press release condemning the violence, reaffirming the collective stance against such acts of aggression.
Meanwhile, stakeholders, village elders, and civil organizations have convened an emergency meeting to address the aftermath of the explosion, underscoring the community’s commitment to fostering dialogue and seeking solutions to mitigate further unrest.
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