Militants ambushed Assam Rifles soldiers in Manipur on Friday evening, killing two jawans and injuring another. The attack has further heightened tensions in the violence-hit state.

Governor Strongly Condemns Attack

Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla immediately condemned the incident. His office stated, “He strongly condemned the attack on security forces this evening in which two brave jawans of the Assam Rifles made the supreme sacrifice in the line of duty.”

Attack Took Place in Bishnupur

According to officials, the ambush happened around 6 pm in the Nambol Sabal Leikai area of Bishnupur district. Unidentified gunmen opened fire on Assam Rifles vehicles traveling from Imphal to Bishnupur. Consequently, security forces launched a search operation to track down the attackers.

Ethnic Violence Escalates Unrest

Since May 2023, Manipur has been witnessing intense ethnic clashes. The conflict is mainly between the Meitei community, who live in the plains, and tribal groups, who inhabit the hills. As a result, hundreds of people have been killed, including security personnel, while thousands have been displaced.

Militancy on the Rise

Furthermore, militant groups have become increasingly active during the unrest. They have carried out several attacks on security forces, worsening the fragile security situation in the region.

Past Incidents of Violence

Significantly, attacks on security forces in Manipur predate the current wave of violence. For instance, in 2021, militants ambushed a convoy and killed Colonel Viplav Tripathi, his wife, his young son, and four soldiers.

Overall, this latest ambush underscores the growing challenge for authorities as they struggle to restore peace and stability in the troubled state.