Imphal, 24 May (MTDesk): In a distressing turn of events, Manipur experienced a fresh outbreak of violence on Wednesday, resulting in the tragic death of a 29-year-old man and leaving two others injured in a separate incident within the Bishnupur district. As a response to these alarming incidents, district authorities have canceled the curfew relaxation in three districts – Bishnupur, Imphal East and Imphal West. Curfew had earlier been relaxed from 5 am in the morning to 4 pm.
According to police reports, armed youths conducted raids in several villages of Moirang in the Bishnupur district today. Inhabitants of a relief camp came out to investigate the situation, only to have Toijam Chandramani, 29, struck by a bullet. Despite immediate medical attention, Chandramani’s injuries proved fatal, leading to his untimely demise.
The tragic incident has further escalated tensions in the area, prompting the deployment of additional paramilitary and police personnel to regain control over the situation.
Further reports from the police indicate that three houses in Phoubakchao village, Bishnupur, were set ablaze on Tuesday night. In a retaliatory act, members of another community resorted to burning down four houses.
The state of Manipur has been grappling with ethnic violence since May 3, with 11 out of 16 districts being adversely affected. In response to the ongoing unrest, an indefinite curfew was imposed, and internet services were suspended. Unfortunately, sporadic incidents of violence have continued to occur on an almost daily basis.
To address the escalating situation, the Army, Assam Rifles, and Territorial Army have been deployed to 23 of the most sensitive and volatile police station areas across 11 districts.
Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh, who also holds the Home portfolio, expressed that the government has formally requested additional central forces to effectively combat the recurring violence in certain areas.
The escalating violence has already claimed the lives of 71 individuals, while leaving approximately 300 people injured. Moreover, nearly 1,700 houses have been destroyed, and over 200 vehicles have been ravaged by the ongoing turmoil.