Violent Mob Rampages Through Manipur, Claiming Two Lives in Attack on Top Officials’ Offices

In Churachandpur, a region of Manipur marked by ethnic tensions, a mob attacked the government compound housing the district collector and police superintendent’s offices on Thursday night. The district collector’s home and security force vehicles near the mini secretariat were set on fire, leading to at least two deaths and a dozen injuries.

Security forces responded by opening fire. Following the incident, the state government imposed a five-day ban on cellular data services in Churachandpur district, predominantly inhabited by the Kuki community.

Also Read: Wellhealth Ayurvedic Health Tips

Joint Secretary Mayengbam Veto Singh issued an order citing the potential for anti-social elements to incite public passion on social media, posing a risk to law and order. The order highlighted the immediate threat of fatalities, property damage, and disruptions to social harmony and public peace. As a proactive measure, the state government decided to temporarily suspend or curtail mobile internet/data services and internet data services via VPN in Churachandpur for five days.

Although the Manipur Police had not officially commented on the deaths, those familiar with the incident identified the deceased as Letalalkhol Gangte and Thanggunlen Haokip, both residents of Churachandpur. Over a dozen people were injured, with two men succumbing to gunshot wounds, according to a Churachandpur district hospital official.

The incident was triggered by the suspension of a police chief constable from the Kuki tribe. A viral video on social media depicting the head constable with village volunteers and armed men led to his suspension, citing serious misconduct. Barricades have been set up by the Kuki and Meitei communities at entry and exit points in districts where they are predominant, with village defense volunteers stationed to guard these posts.

The mob, estimated to consist of 300–400 people, gathered and began throwing stones upon learning about the suspension. They breached a gate and entered the compound, prompting heavy security force deployments in the town. The unrest, including fighting and arson, persisted until around midnight, according to a local resident in Churachandpur.

Also Read: well health tips in hindi wellhealth