The state of Manipur in northeastern India has been marred by escalating violence as mobs unleash chaos, vandalizing police facilities and engaging in armed confrontations with security forces. The recent incidents have further exacerbated tensions in the region and raised concerns about the law and order situation. The clashes between communities have taken a turn for the worse, with political leaders becoming targets of violence. As the central government strives to implement a peace plan, the need to restore calm and stability in Manipur has become more urgent.
Violence Grips Manipur as Mobs Target Police
In a distressing series of events, automatic weapons were fired from Kwakta in Bishnupur district and Kangvai in Churachandpur district. The sound of intermittent gunfire persisted throughout the night and into the early morning. These armed confrontations between unidentified individuals and security forces have added to the prevailing atmosphere of fear and insecurity.
Alongside the armed clashes, mobs have engaged in acts of vandalism, arson, and attempted attacks on key targets. The Palace Compound near Advance Hospital was the site of an attempted arson, where a mob of approximately 1,000 people gathered, intent on causing destruction. In response, the RAF employed tear gas and rubber bullets to disperse the mob, resulting in two civilian injuries.
Similarly, incidents of mob build-up and attempted vandalism were reported near Manipur University. A group of 200 to 300 people gathered near Thongju, aiming to vandalize the residence of a local Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA). The RAF promptly intervened and dispersed the crowd, preventing any further damage.
The unrest extended to the Imphal West district as well, where another mob attempted to vandalize the Iringbam Police Station’s armoury. Approximately 300 to 400 individuals made an attempt to ransack the police station late at night. The RAF swiftly intervened and managed to disperse the crowd, averting potential disaster.
Political Leaders Under Threat
According to NDTV, Adding to the alarming situation, political leaders have become targets of violence. Late in the night, a mob of 200 to 300 people surrounded the BJP office in Sinjemai. However, an Army column successfully dispersed the crowd, preventing any damage to the premises. Additionally, the residence of the state BJP president, Adhikarimayum Sharda Devi, was also targeted by a mob. Thanks to the prompt intervention of the Army and RAF, the attempt at vandalism was foiled, ensuring the safety of the residence.
Previous Incidents and Current Volatility
These recent attacks follow the burning of the home of Union Minister RK Ranjan Singh by a mob of 1,200 individuals, who resorted to throwing petrol bombs. The escalating violence between communities has significantly heightened tensions in Manipur. Despite the government’s efforts to implement a peace plan, the prevailing law and order situation remains extremely volatile.
