A rocket attack in Manipur’s Bishnupur district has once again highlighted the fragile state of peace in the region. The early Tuesday strike on Tronglaobi village claimed the lives of two children and injured their mother, sparking outrage among locals. Authorities have blamed suspected Kuki militants for the assault, which immediately triggered violent protests. Enraged residents surrounded a CRPF camp, set vehicles ablaze, and clashed with security forces, leading to two more deaths and nearly 20 injuries.
In response to the escalating violence, the state government imposed curfews across five valley districts to prevent further unrest. Mobile internet services were suspended for three days to curb the spread of misinformation and inflammatory content. Security forces launched combing operations with helicopter support to flush out militants and restore order. The measures reflect the seriousness of the situation, as officials attempt to balance law enforcement with the need to calm public anger.
Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh visited the injured mother in hospital, offering condolences and appealing for restraint. His intervention underscores the government’s concern over the spiraling ethnic conflict between Meiteis and Kuki-Zo groups, which has already claimed more than 250 lives since May 2023. Singh urged communities to avoid retaliatory violence and stressed that peace and dialogue remain the only path forward.
The tragedy has reignited debate over the state’s ability to manage the long-running ethnic tensions that have plagued Manipur. While security operations may provide short-term relief, the deeper issues of mistrust, displacement, and political grievances remain unresolved. For many residents, the rocket attack is not just another incident but a painful reminder of the vulnerability of civilians caught in the crossfire. As curfews and combing operations continue, the challenge for authorities lies in preventing further escalation while working toward a sustainable resolution to the conflict.
