Violence escalated in Bishnupur district on Tuesday after a four-year-old boy and his newborn sister were killed when a rocket-like projectile struck their home in the early hours of the day, triggering widespread protests in which two civilians were also killed, Indian Express reported officials as saying.
The incident occurred around 1 am at Tronglaobi Awang Leikai, a village located along a sensitive boundary area. The children’s mother, Oinam Binita, sustained critical injuries in the blast and is currently undergoing treatment.
According to family members, the explosion took place while the victims were asleep.
As news of the killings spread, protests erupted across Bishnupur, with residents taking to the streets, burning tyres, and enforcing blockades.
According to the report, a mob reportedly attempted to storm a CRPF post near the village, prompting security forces to open fire.
State Home Minister Govindas Konthoujam confirmed that two civilians were killed during the confrontation, while three others sustained bullet injuries and are receiving treatment.
Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh said a massive operation has been launched to apprehend those responsible for the attack, adding that security forces have been instructed to act decisively.
He also stated that the case would be handed over to the National Investigation Agency (NIA), and alleged that the attack may have been carried out by elements seeking to destabilise the peace process in the state.
Later in the day, a live rocket-propelled grenade (RPG) shell was reportedly recovered a few metres from the site of the attack, prompting panic among residents, some of whom fled their homes.
In view of the deteriorating law and order situation, the Manipur government ordered the suspension of internet and mobile data services in five districts – Imphal East, Imphal West, Thoubal, Kakching, and Bishnupur district – for three days starting 2 pm on April 7, citing concerns over the spread of misinformation and potential escalation of violence.
Authorities said the restrictions were imposed under provisions of the Temporary Suspension of Telecommunication Services Rules, 2024, to prevent mobilisation of mobs and maintain public order.
The protests also spread to other areas, including Imphal, where roads were blocked and business establishments remained shut.
Tronglaobi, located near the Churachandpur district border, has witnessed repeated incidents of violence since ethnic tensions broke out in the state in May 2023. Officials described Tuesday’s incident as a major escalation in recent months.
