Gunfights Erupt In Manipur's Imphal East, 1 Killed, Army Officer Among Injured

The exchange of gunfire across the border between Imphal East and Kangpokpi districts claimed the life of a 25-year-old man, identified as Sagolsem Loya, from the Meitei community.

Image used for representational purposes only.

Source : PTI Images

A 25-year-old village volunteer was killed, and two others sustained injuries in a clash between two communities in Manipur's Imphal East district, news agency PTI reported citing police sources on Tuesday. Simultaneously, a separate incident in the same district left an army officer injured due to gunshot wounds. 

The confrontation occurred at Pukhao Shantipur in Kangpokpi district, leading to the death of the village volunteer, who succumbed to injuries at a private hospital in Imphal, according to the PTI report. 

Intermittent gunfights had been ongoing in Pukhao and surrounding hill areas since Sunday night, escalating tensions in the region.

In a distinct incident, an army officer suffered injuries in the right calf during an attempt to control a situation where firing by miscreants was reported at various places in Imphal East district, the report said. 

The injured officer was evacuated by helicopter to the Military Hospital in Leimakhong Military Station, and his condition is reported to be stable, according to police statements.

"The Junior Commissioned Officer has been evacuated by helicopter to the Military Hospital in Leimakhong Military Station and his condition is reported to be stable," said a police statement, according to PTI. 

The recent violence adds to the ongoing ethnic tensions in Manipur, with over 180 people having lost their lives since May 3 last year, triggered by protests against the Meitei community's demand for Scheduled Tribe (ST) status.

The conflict primarily involves the Meitei community, constituting 53% of Manipur's population and residing in the Imphal Valley, and the tribals, comprising Nagas and Kukis, accounting for 40% and residing mainly in the hill districts.

As tensions persist, areas bordering Meitei and Kuki-Zomi-dominated districts continue to witness violence, with ongoing clashes and accusations between the communities exacerbating the situation.