Escalating Violence In Manipur: 5 Dead, Including Police Officer, Amidst Amit Shah's Visit

The situation in Manipur remains highly volatile, with a tragic loss of lives, including that of a police officer, during the clashes that occurred last night. Government officials reported incidents of firing on civilians, security forces, and militant groups from different locations, primarily in the Imphal Valley. This unsettling turn of events comes at a crucial time, just before the scheduled visit of Home Minister Amit Shah to Manipur, aiming to address the ongoing violence .

Chief Minister N Biren Singh previously stated that they have received reports of the successful neutralization of "40 terrorists."

"The terrorists have been using M-16 and AK-47 assault rifles and sniper guns against civilians. They came to many villages to burn down homes. We have started taking very strong action against them with the help of the army and other security forces. We have got reports some 40 terrorists have been shot dead," the Manipur CM said.

Expressing his strong condemnation of the violence in the state, the Chief Minister emphatically stated, "The spurt in violent attacks on civilians on the outskirts of Imphal valley in the past two days seemed well-planned."

During his media address, the CM of Manipur further revealed that the terrorists involved in the incidents had been utilizing sophisticated weaponry such as M-16 and AK-47 assault rifles, along with sniper guns, to target innocent civilians.

In May, Manipur witnessed a series of clashes triggered by the 'Tribal Solidarity March' organized by the All Tribal Students' Union of Manipur (ATSUM), which aimed to protest against the inclusion of the Meitei community in the ST (Scheduled Tribe) category. These clashes have had severe consequences, including the disruption of banking and ATM services due to the suspension of internet connectivity. Regrettably, the violent confrontations have resulted in the tragic loss of over 70 lives.