Manipur: Rocket attack shatters peace in Moirang, residents traumatized

Moirang, a town in Bishnupur district in Manipur has been left traumatized after a devastating rocket attack by Kuki militants on September 6. The attack by Kuki militants with highly powerful and long-range rocket stuck at residence of Moirang Koireng, first elected chief minister of Manipur, in Moirang Mairembam Leikai. This incident, which left one elderly man dead and five others injured, has plunged the town into a state of fear and uncertainty.

Situated just 10 kilometers from the vulnerable border between Bishnupur and Churachandpur, Moirang had been relatively shielded from the violence plaguing other parts of the district. However, the deadly strike has shattered that sense of security. The powerful long-range rocket, launched by militants from nearby elevated hills, exploded near a statue of M. Koireng Singh, causing widespread destruction and casualties.

Kelvin, the great-grandson of M. Koireng, recounted the horrifying event to India Today NE. He described the unimaginable scene when the missile struck, killing a 78-year-old priest, RK Rabei, and injuring five others. "The blast was so powerful that it shattered windows and damaged household properties. We were preparing for the Asti ceremony of my grandmother when the explosion occurred," Kelvin recalled. "The fragments of the missile penetrated walls, and I found the elderly priest lying dead. The trauma it has left on the people here is tremendous."

Moirang, which lies approximately 10 kilometers away from the violence-ridden foothills, is now facing the chilling reality that Kuki militants possess weapons capable of long-range attacks. The once-calm town has seen some residents flee, while those who remain live in constant fear of further assaults.

Rk Henry, son of the deceased priest, expressed his grief and outrage over the incident. "My father was a simple man, devoted to rituals and prayers. It’s heartbreaking to see him killed in such a brutal manner. We want justice, and we demand that the government ensures our safety and security," he said.

In response to the escalating violence, security forces have intensified joint operations in the peripheral areas to counter the attacks. However, locals, disillusioned by the inability of the authorities to protect them, are now left with little choice but to endure the uncertainty and brace themselves for future attacks.

Despite ongoing appeals for peace from various communities, the violence in Manipur continues unabated, leaving towns like Moirang grappling with the consequences.