Guwahati
In continuing violence in Manipur, unidentified people on Wednesday night set ablaze the official quarters of woman Manipur Minister Nemcha Kipgen in Lamphel area in Imphal West district. Kipgen is a Kuki community leader.
Fortunately, no one was inside the quarters when the incident took place. Firefighters reached the spot and doused the flames before the blaze could spread to the neighbourhood. Security forces have launched a manhunt to nab the culprits.
The incident came close on the heels of militants on Tuesday killing 9 persons and injuring 10 others in an audacious strike despite the heavy deployment of security forces in the State. Armed with sophisticated weapons, attacked Aigijang village in the Khamenlok area of strife-torn Manipur around 10.30 am on Tuesday.
The militants surrounded the villagers of the Khamelok area bordering Imphal East district and Kangpoki district and launched the attack. Reports said some of those killed in the violence have cut marks on their bodies and multiple bullet injuries. The injured have been admitted to Imphal hospital.
The Manipur government has continued the suspension of internet services till June 15. The incidents, coming just a few days after Union Home Minister Amit Shah’s visit to the State, also come as a major setback to efforts to restore peace in Manipur. The relaxation of the curfew has been restricted as a result.
The Congress hit out at the Government saying, “Narendra Modi has remained a mute spectator. Modi ji has not even had the time to chair a meeting on Manipur. But, the Congress party shall keep questioning Modi Government’s rank incompetence,” he said on Twitter.
