JIRIBUM : Tensions escalated again in Jiribam district as violence erupted, resulting in the death of one CRPF jawan, Ajay Kumar. According to Meitei groups, the incident occurred amidst heightened ethnic tensions, with Kuki militants allegedly launching a barrage of bullets and bombs on Meitei communities. The attack led to the burning of houses and widespread panic.

Meitei groups, including the Jiri Apunba Lup (JAL), condemned the repeated inaction by security forces against militant activities targeting Meitei villagers. They accused the security forces of failing to contain the violence, allowing militant groups to continue their attacks unchecked.

Conversely, Kuki groups claimed that Meitei police commandos initiated the violence by attacking Kuki Village Volunteers (KVV), prompting retaliatory measures. Manipur has been reeling from violence since May 3, stemming from clashes triggered by a tribal solidarity march.

Kuki groups criticize food shortage in Jiribam after alleged destruction by security forces Accusing the central forces and Jiribam police of resorting to “uncivilized and inhumane” methods, the Kuki civil society organizations have voiced severe criticism.

The Kuki Inpi Jiribam, Tamenglong & Noney (KIJTN) along with other Kuki groups have strongly condemned a recent search operation conducted by security forces in Mongbung village, Jiribam district. Accusing the central forces and Jiribam police of resorting to “uncivilized and inhumane” methods, the Kuki civil society organizations have voiced severe criticism.

According to their statement, the security forces allegedly destroyed vital food supplies such as rice, potatoes, and lentils, exacerbating the difficulties caused by an existing blockade imposed by Meitei groups.

This operation, they argue, was poorly timed, following a recent attack by heavily armed Meitei militants on Mongbung and a neighboring village.

The Kuki groups also highlighted previous incidents where women were reportedly harassed and innocent youths were detained during similar operations in Phaitol village.

These incidents have led to suspicions within the Kuki community about possible collusion between security forces and Meitei groups.

The statement issued by the Kuki Chief Association, Tousem Block (KCA), Kuki Students’ Organization Jiri & Tamenglong, and Kuki Inpi Women Wing demands the removal of a specific Colonel involved in the operation and calls for accountability for those responsible for the Mongbung incident.

They caution that any adverse outcomes resulting from these actions will be squarely attributed to district authorities, security agencies, and the state government.

Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh has strongly denounced the killing of a CRPF jawan in an attack suspected to be perpetrated by Kuki militants in Jiribam district. The incident resulted in the death of the jawan and injuries to several others.

Singh expressed his condemnation on the microblogging site X, stating, “I strongly condemn the killing of a CRPF jawan in an attack carried out by an armed group suspected to be Kuki militants in Jiribam district today.”

He said that the jawan’s sacrifice in the line of duty will not be forgotten, further extending his sincere condolences to the grieving family of the deceased. The Chief Minister also conveyed prayers for the swift recovery of those injured in the assault.