Two Assam Rifles Personnel Killed in Manipur Ambush: A Return to Violence
In a shocking resurgence of violence in Manipur, two personnel from the Assam Rifles were killed and five others injured during an ambush on Friday. This incident, which took place in Bishnupur district, marks the first targeted attack on security forces in the region in over a year, raising concerns about the fragile peace that has been maintained since previous conflicts.
Details of the Attack
The ambush occurred around 6 PM as a convoy was traveling from Imphal West to Bishnupur, a distance of approximately 25 kilometers. The attack took place in the Nambol Sabal Leikai area, just 2 kilometers from the convoy’s destination. According to an official statement from the Assam Rifles, unidentified militants first fired at the vehicle’s tires to immobilize it before unleashing a barrage of gunfire.
The deceased personnel have been identified as Naik Subedar Shyam Gurung and Rifleman Ranjit Singh Kashyap. Following the attack, they were evacuated to the Regional Institute of Medical Sciences (RIMS), where their condition was reported as stable.
Context of the Conflict
Bishnupur district is predominantly inhabited by the Meitei community, while the neighboring hill district of Churachandpur is primarily home to tribal populations. Tensions have been simmering in the region, with ongoing protests against the Assam Rifles. Meitei residents have accused the paramilitary force of bias, a claim that the Assam Rifles has consistently denied.
The ambush is particularly alarming as it disrupts a tenuous peace that had been established since July 14, 2024, when a Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) jawan was killed in a similar attack in Jiribam district. The recent violence comes just days after Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to the state, during which he urged various factions to abandon violence and work towards reconciliation.
Official Reactions
Manipur Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla condemned the attack, emphasizing that such acts of violence would not be tolerated. In a statement, he expressed his condolences to the families of the fallen soldiers and assured that those responsible would face justice. “The Governor reaffirmed that such heinous acts of violence will be met with the strongest resolve,” the Manipur Raj Bhawan posted on social media platform X.
Recent Developments in Manipur
The ambush comes on the heels of a significant tripartite agreement signed by the Indian government, the Manipur government, and Kuki-Zo insurgent groups. This agreement aims to break the cycle of violence that has plagued the state since May 2023, resulting in over 260 deaths. Under the Suspension of Operations (SoO) agreement, the signatory militant groups committed to refraining from violence and cooperating with security forces to restore peace.
While no group has officially claimed responsibility for the ambush, sources suggest that the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) Manipur, a separatist outfit not part of the SoO agreement, is likely behind the attack. This group has a history of targeting security forces in the valley areas surrounding Bishnupur.
The Broader Implications
The ethnic conflict in Manipur, which initially erupted between the Meitei and Kuki communities, has since escalated to involve nearly every community in the state. The situation has led to the dismissal of the state government in February and the deployment of thousands of security personnel to maintain order.
The recent ambush serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing instability in Manipur, where the interplay of ethnic tensions, political strife, and militant activity continues to pose significant challenges to peace and security.
Conclusion
The tragic loss of two Assam Rifles personnel in the Bishnupur ambush underscores the precarious nature of peace in Manipur. As the state grapples with deep-rooted ethnic conflicts and the resurgence of violence, the need for dialogue and reconciliation becomes increasingly urgent. The incident not only highlights the risks faced by security forces but also raises questions about the effectiveness of recent peace initiatives. As the situation unfolds, the focus will remain on restoring stability and ensuring the safety of all communities in the region.
