Five Killed in Fresh Violence in Manipur’s Jiribam Amid Growing Unrest

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Imphal/Kolkata: Fresh violence erupted in Manipur’s Jiribam district on Saturday morning, leaving five people dead, police reported. The violence began when militants entered the house of a man who lived alone in a remote area, around 5 km from the district headquarters. The victim, who was sleeping at the time, was shot dead on the spot, according to a local police officer.

Following the killing, a fierce exchange of fire broke out between armed men from opposing communities in the hills, approximately 7 km from the district headquarters. This deadly clash resulted in the deaths of four more individuals, including three militants from hill-based factions. The police have confirmed that these militants were part of groups that have been involved in ongoing ethnic violence across the state.

This incident marks the latest in a series of violent confrontations in Manipur, which has been in turmoil since May of last year. Ethnic clashes and militant activities have claimed over 200 lives and displaced thousands, many of whom are now homeless.

Rocket Attacks and Drones Heighten the Conflict

Earlier this week, the situation in Manipur took a darker turn when drones were reportedly used to drop bombs on civilians in two separate locations in Imphal West district. These drone bombings, along with subsequent rocket attacks, are unprecedented in the state’s history and signal a dangerous escalation in the ongoing ethnic conflict. The use of such advanced weaponry has alarmed authorities and citizens alike.

A History of Escalating Violence

The state of Manipur has been plagued by violence for over a year, primarily driven by deep-seated ethnic tensions between the Meitei and Kuki communities. Despite multiple attempts at peace, the violence continues to flare up, particularly in rural and remote districts like Jiribam.

  • June 2023: Ethnic clashes between Meitei and Kuki groups claimed more than 60 lives and sparked widespread violence in several districts, including Imphal and Churachandpur.
  • August 2024: A militant ambush in Churachandpur led to the deaths of seven soldiers, highlighting the state’s fragile security situation.
  • Recent Incidents: In addition to the drone and rocket attacks, several incidents of arson, looting, and shootouts have taken place over the past months, leaving more than 200 people dead.

Authorities on High Alert

Following Saturday’s violence, security forces have been deployed in Jiribam and nearby areas to prevent further escalations. Manipur Chief Minister N. Biren Singh condemned the violence and urged residents to remain indoors. The state government has intensified security measures, particularly in conflict-prone regions, and appealed to communities for peace.

Local authorities have urged people to report any suspicious activities to the police and have issued a stern warning to armed groups operating in the state. Despite these efforts, tensions remain high, and many fear that further attacks may be imminent.

Further details are awaited as investigations continue, and police anticipate more arrests in connection with the latest violence.

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