In a significant development, fresh violence erupted in the northeastern Indian state of Manipur following a suspected rocket attack on a civilian residence in Bishnupur district. The strike resulted in the deaths of two young children, igniting protests and prompting a stringent security response, including an indefinite curfew across several districts.
The early morning assault targeted a house in the village of Tronglaobi Awang Leikai, located in the Moirang area. A five-year-old boy and his infant sister, who were asleep at the time, lost their lives. Their mother sustained critical injuries and was immediately transported to a hospital for emergency treatment.
In the aftermath, enraged locals took to the streets, leading to confrontations with security personnel in Bishnupur and neighboring regions. To contain the unrest, authorities suspended internet services in five districts, including Imphal East, Imphal West, Thoubal, and Kakching. Protesters reportedly set fire to several army vehicles during the clashes.
The government imposed an indefinite curfew in the valley districts most affected by the violence. Additionally, the investigation into the blast has been transferred to India’s National Investigation Agency (NIA) to ensure a thorough inquiry.
Chief Minister Y Khemchand Singh condemned the attack, describing it as an “assault on humanity.” He visited the survivors and assured that security forces would deliver justice and provide necessary medical assistance to the injured.
Manipur has been struggling with sporadic ethnic violence since 2023, primarily involving the majority Meitei community in the Imphal Valley and various tribal groups from the surrounding hills. Previous clashes have resulted in numerous fatalities and the displacement of thousands. Experts attribute the ongoing conflict to deep-rooted grievances related to land rights, identity, and political representation, which continue to fuel cycles of retaliation.
In response to the escalating tensions, security forces have increased their presence in both valley and hill districts, conducting patrols and search operations aimed at preventing further violence. Officials have appealed to residents to remain calm and cooperate with law enforcement agencies as they work to restore order.
