17-Year-Old Shot Dead in Manipur, Leaders Condemn Violence

Imphal, September 21 (Daily Kiran) : A tragic incident unfolded in Imphal, Manipur, on September 21, when a 17-year-old boy was shot dead by suspected militants. The victim has been identified as N.K. Vipenbou, a member of the Naga community. According to police reports, Vipenbou was walking alone from the village of Upper Takou to the town of Tamenglong when he was attacked.His body was later discovered by volunteers from a Naga village along a hillside path. Chief Minister N. Biren Singh condemned the act, stating that there is no place in society for the murder of an innocent student. In a statement released on social media, he expressed his deep condolences to the grieving family and prayed for their strength during this difficult time. Former Chief Minister N. Khemchand Singh also expressed his sorrow over the incident, questioning, “Who will be next?” He described the murder of the student, who was on his way to purchase essential items, as deeply painful and called for immediate and decisive action against the perpetrators.Deputy Chief Minister Nemcha Kipgen and Awangbou Newmai, a legislator from the Naga People’s Front, denounced the killing as a cowardly and heinous act targeting innocent civilians. Kipgen urged the public to maintain peace and calm, emphasizing the need for a fair investigation and legal action against those responsible. Since violence erupted between the Naga and Kuki communities in February, over 40 lives have been lost. In the past month alone, violent incidents in the districts of Jiribam, Tamenglong, Kangpokpi, and Noney have resulted in the deaths of 12 individuals, including six women.The districts of Kangpokpi, Tamenglong, Noney, Ukhrul, and Kamjong have been particularly affected by the ongoing unrest.