Imphal: Tensions flared in Manipur’s Imphal East district as suspected Kuki militants opened fire at a Meitei temple during a religious ritual, officials said.
Fortunately, no casualties were reported in the incident, which marks the first such attack since the imposition of President’s Rule in the state on February 13.
The firing occurred at Kongba Maru temple when Meitei community members were performing rituals.
Over 10 rounds were fired from the Wakan Hill Range in Kangpokpi district, authorities stated.
Combined security forces, including Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) troops, swiftly responded to the situation and arrested four individuals.
The arrested suspects, identified as Lungousem Kipgen (29), Letminlal Kipgen (25), Satminlun Tuboi (24), and Thanggoulun Kilong (27), are residents of Kangpokpi district. Local residents, angered by the attack, blocked vehicular traffic in protest.
Prior to the firing, the attackers allegedly vandalized temple property, heightening tensions between communities.
Kongba Maru temple, located approximately 22 kilometers from Imphal city, is a significant religious site where the Kongba river originates.
The attack comes amidst an ongoing initiative to recover looted and illegally held arms.
Manipur Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla, who has been overseeing the surrender of such weapons since February 21, extended the deadline for their return by another week.
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He warned that strict legal action would follow the expiration of the new deadline.
As of February 27, security forces have recovered over 610 weapons, including sophisticated arms and large quantities of ammunition.
The appeal for disarmament follows months of ethnic violence between the Meitei and Kuki-Zo communities, which began in May 2023 and has left over 250 people dead, 1,500 injured, and 70,000 displaced.
President’s Rule was imposed on February 13 after Chief Minister N Biren Singh resigned. The state assembly has since been placed under suspended animation.
