Manipur CM orders tighter security after three civilians killed in suspected militant attack

Manipur Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh on Oct 19, condemned the killing of three civilians in a suspected militant attack and directed security officials to strengthen security arrangements in vulnerable areas across the state.

The chief minister issued the directions during a security review meeting at the Chief Minister's Secretariat in Imphal. The meeting reviewed the overall security situation, including incidents reported in Imphal East and Thoubal districts over the preceding two days, according to an official statement.

The meeting was attended by state Home Minister Govindas Konthoujam, Chief Secretary Rajeev Singh Thakur, Security Advisor Kuldiep Singh, Director General of Police Mukesh Singh and senior officials from the Army, Assam Rifles, Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), Border Security Force (BSF) and other security agencies.

Three civilians killed in attack

The latest attack took place on Oct 19 morning near the border of Imphal East and Kangpokpi districts. Three people were killed and three others injured after suspected militants opened fire on a group of people collecting firewood, officials said.

The group comprised 16 people, and three others were reported missing following the incident, according to a PTI report published by ThePrint.

The killings triggered protests in Imphal, where demonstrators placed the bodies of two victims outside the chief minister's official residence. Police used tear gas to disperse protesters, while security was tightened around the residence and along nearby routes. Markets and shops in parts of the state capital also shut following the incident.

Singh later visited the injured civilians at a private hospital and assured their families that the state government would cover their medical expenses.

Fresh violence reported in other districts

The incident followed violence in Thoubal district on Oct 18, where one person was killed and several others were injured in clashes between two communities. Authorities imposed prohibitory orders in the affected areas, while some houses and vehicles were set on fire.

Separately, reports of arson and civilian injuries emerged from Kamjong district over the weekend, adding to concerns about renewed violence across Manipur.

The state has experienced prolonged ethnic violence since May 2023. The latest incidents have prompted fresh security reviews and calls for stronger protection of civilians in vulnerable areas.