Three Killed in Manipur Attack as Protesters Bring Bodies to CM’s Home

Two bodies were placed outside Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh’s residence in Imphal after gunmen killed three villagers collecting firewood in Manipur on Monday. Four others were injured in the attack, which police said targeted a group of Meitei villagers. The protest brought renewed violence to the chief minister’s doorstep, after months in which fighting between Meitei and Kuki communities had eased.^1,12

The protest followed an attack near the border between Imphal East and Kangpokpi districts. Senior police official Lhari Dorjee Lhatoo said unidentified armed men opened fire on villagers cutting and carrying firewood. The injured were taken for treatment, and Singh later visited them at Raj Medicity Hospital. Meitei groups blamed Kuki militants, while Kuki groups denied responsibility. Police have not confirmed who carried out the attack.^1,2

After visiting the hospital, Singh held a security meeting with senior state officials and officers from the Army and central forces. He condemned the killings and told officials to strengthen security in vulnerable areas.^2,3 The attack matters because it comes amid a long-running ethnic conflict that began in May 2023, renewing fears of further clashes. The attackers’ identities and motives remain disputed, while protesters are demanding protection and accountability.^1,14

The uncertainty leaves the state government with immediate tasks: find out who carried out the ambush, protect civilians travelling into the hills, and prevent retaliation. Singh has ordered stronger security in vulnerable areas, and police and security forces are searching for those responsible.^2,8 The injured villagers remain under medical care, and the government says it will cover their treatment costs.²