New Delhi (India), May 6, 2023: Four individuals were tragically shot dead in Churachandpur, Manipur during an evacuation of Meiteis in the area, as tensions continue to mount between the state’s Meitei community and the Kuki tribe.
The Indian Revenue Service Association also reported the killing of tax assistant Letminthang Haokip in Imphal. The Association condemned the killing of the innocent public servant, stating that no cause or ideology can justify such an act.
According to witness accounts, the unrest began on Friday evening, as security personnel were deployed in the area. The Meitei people were due to be evacuated, which resulted in protests from those opposed to the move. When tribals attempted to intervene, four individuals lost their lives in the resulting shooting.
Meanwhile, in a bid to ensure the safety of its personnel on leave, the CRPF has issued instructions to its units and establishments to promptly contact their personnel hailing from Manipur, and direct them to report immediately to the nearest CRPF, BSF, or SF location if they feel unsafe or insecure. This follows the shooting of a CRPF constable who was on leave and tried to stop a village from being set on fire.
The violence in Manipur has resulted in deep concern and outrage from many quarters, with the senior officials from both the central security forces and the district police confirming the tragic loss of life. The ongoing clashes between the Meitei and Kuki tribes have left many on edge and heightened tensions in the region.
