Imphal, 21 March (HS): At least two civilians, including a woman, were seriously injured in two separate firing incidents reported from the border areas of Ukhrul and Kangpokpi districts in Manipur on Saturday, triggering fresh concerns over security in the region.

According to statements issued by the Ihang-Bungpi Working Committee and the Kuki Civil Society Organisation (CSO) Working Committee, Ukhrul, suspected Tangkhul militants opened fire at two locations during the morning hours. The first incident occurred in Shangkhai village, while the second took place along the Leplen–Tingpibung road.

The most serious incident was reported around 9:30 am, when an auto-rickshaw travelling from Tingpibung to Leplen came under fire from automatic weapons from the Sanakethal side. The vehicle was hit by multiple bullets, leaving two occupants critically injured. Among them is a woman who sustained a bullet injury to her waist. Both victims are stated to be in critical condition.

Earlier, at around 5:15 am, 3 to 4 rounds of firing were reported towards Shangkhai village, creating panic among residents. However, no casualties were reported in that incident.

The Ihang-Bungpi Working Committee termed the 9:30 am attack as a planned assault on unarmed civilians. Meanwhile, the Kuki CSO Working Committee strongly condemned the incidents, stating that the violence occurred at a time when the community was still mourning the recent deaths of Thengkhing Baite and Thangboimang Lungkim. The committee also noted that it had cooperated with authorities by withdrawing a shutdown call on March 20 based on administrative assurances.

The organisations have urged the authorities to identify those responsible and ensure strict action to prevent recurrence of such incidents.-----------

Hindusthan Samachar / Sriprakash