Tensions in Manipur’s Kangpokpi district were heightened on Thursday when an unprovoked attack by unidentified individuals resulted in one confirmed death and several injuries in Haraothel village.
The incident, reported by local army sources, has added to the existing strain in the area. While casualties are yet to be confirmed, official sources have reported recovery of a body, and more casualties are suspected due to ongoing intermittent firing in the area.
The local army unit, responding promptly to the incident, has been working to prevent further escalation. The armed aggressors reportedly opened fire at 5.30 am without provocation. Army troops “responded in a calibrated manner” to avoid collateral damage, and their swift action resulted in the cessation of firing, according to the “Spear Corps” army handle.
Despite these efforts, the situation remains volatile, with large crowds accumulating in the area,located approximately 20 kilometres from Manipur’s capital city, Imphal.
The incident is the latest in an ongoing conflict between the Meitei and Kuki communities in the northeastern state, with over 100 lives already lost since clashes broke out on May 3.
The conflict began following a ‘Tribal Solidarity March’ organised by the hill districts to protest against the Meitei community’s demand for Scheduled Tribe (ST) status.