Tensions erupted once again in Manipur on Monday morning following a series of improvised explosive device (IED) explosions in Bishnupur district, leaving two individuals wounded and sparking angry confrontations between local residents and security forces.
Sequence of the Explosions
The volatile incident unfolded in Saiton Nganukon village. According to local accounts, the first two IEDs detonated at approximately 5:30 am at an abandoned house belonging to Salam Mani. The resident had been living in a relief camp at Keibul Lamjao since the ethnic clashes began in May 2023. This property was among the few Meitei-owned homes not destroyed when nine others were burned down last year.
A second wave of blasts occurred around 8:45 am, resulting in injuries to two people. The victims were identified as Soibam Sanatomba (51), a retired personnel of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), and Nongthombam Indubala (37). Both suffered splinter injuries and were rushed to a government hospital. Officials confirmed they are now out of danger.
Security sources revealed that additional unexploded IEDs were found in the vicinity and were later safely disposed of by experts. This attack marks the second such violent episode in the area in under three weeks, following an assault on December 16 in nearby Torbung village during resettlement activities for internally displaced persons.
Public Outrage and Security Fallout
The explosions triggered immediate and fierce backlash from the local community. Irate protesters clashed with security personnel deployed in the region, accusing them of failing to protect civilian lives and property despite a significant presence. In a display of their anger, the crowd dismantled a makeshift bunker used by central forces.
In response, authorities have significantly tightened security across the district, with forces increasing patrols and vigilance to prevent any further escalation of violence.
Political Condemnation and Civil Society Response
Reactions from political and civil society groups were swift and severe. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) condemned the blasts, demanding the arrest of those responsible and pledging support to the affected families. In a statement, the party asserted, "Justice will prevail. Manipur stands united."
Local MLA Premchandra Singh echoed the desire for peace, warning that those engaging in harmful acts would face legal consequences.
Several prominent organizations, including the Indigenous People Organisation and the All Manipur Students’ Union, announced a 24-hour statewide shutdown beginning Wednesday midnight to protest the incident.
The Coordinating Committee on Manipur Integrity (COCOMI) issued a strong condemnation, labeling the attack a "deliberate act of terror against unarmed civilians." The group held the state administration and security apparatus directly responsible for their failure to protect civilians and demanded a transparent, time-bound investigation. COCOMI emphasized the need for accountability not only for the perpetrators but also for officials whose lapses enabled the violence.
The situation in Bishnupur remains tense as the community grapples with the recurring violence and the broader challenges of peace and resettlement in the region.
