In a fresh attack by Kuki militants in Manipur’s Naransena two Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel lost their lives. The encounter in the Manipur pocket took place during the midnight.
According to Manipur Police, the attack occurred between midnight and 2:15 am, with Kuki militants targeting the CRPF personnel deployed at the Naransena area in Bishnupur district. The militants engaged in indiscriminate firing from hilltop positions, directing their assault towards the CRPF camp. Additionally, bombs were hurled during the attack, with one bomb exploding within the CRPF’s 128th battalion outpost.
This incident unfolds against a backdrop of ongoing ethnic violence in Manipur, particularly between Imphal Valley-based Meiteis and the hills-based Kuki community, which has claimed numerous lives and displaced thousands since May of the previous year.
Recently, an IED explosion damaged a bridge on National Highway 2 in Manipur’s Kangpokpi district, adding to the escalating tensions in the region.
The attack coincided with the Lok Sabha election day in Manipur, where voting was underway across 857 polling stations spanning 13 assembly segments in eight districts.
Despite the security challenges, Manipur recorded a commendable voter turnout of 76.06 percent by 5 pm.
In the electoral context, the Outer Manipur Lok Sabha constituency witnessed voting in the first phase on April 19, with four candidates contesting the seat, including representatives from NPF, Congress, and independent candidates. Notably, the BJP opted not to field a candidate, instead supporting its ally, the Naga People’s Front (NPF).
The 2019 elections saw the NPF securing victory in the Outer Manipur constituency, defeating the BJP by a significant margin of 73,782 votes. The recent attack underscores the persistent security challenges facing Manipur, particularly amidst the backdrop of electoral activities and ongoing ethnic tensions within the state.
