Manipur violence update: Two killed, over 90 injured in Kakching

In the latest development in the fresh tensions that erupted in Pallel on Septrember 8, the violence resulted in a toll of two lives lost and over 90 individuals sustaining injuries. Heavy gunfight unfolded between state security forces and armed militants at Molnoi Village in the Tengnoupal district.

Reports indicate that a heavily armed group launched an alleged attack on the Molnoi area early in the morning, around 6 am, utilizing sophisticated weaponry. In response, a police team rushed to the scene, aiming to protect the inhabitants of the area. This intervention triggered continued gunfire exchanges between the security forces and the armed group. Sources suggest that at least four militants may have been killed during the intense gunfight.

Alarmed by reports of armed militants assaulting innocent villagers, thousands of men and women from Kakching and Thoubal sides converged on the Pallel area. Their unarmed determination to safeguard Manipur from armed militants met with resistance from Assam Rifles personnel stationed at Pallel.

Gunshots echoed persistently through the morning hours, raising tensions further. A significant number of men and women confronted Assam Rifles forces in an attempt to enter the Pallel area where the firefight was ongoing. To manage the situation, Assam Rifles reportedly resorted to firing tear gas shells.

Two individuals succumbed to bullet injuries, while 90 people sustained various injuries, with over 20 of them suffering from gunshot wounds. Among the deceased, one has been identified as Yengkhom Jiten (48) of Kakching Chumnang Samballei Pareng in Kakching district, while the identity of the other remains unknown.