Mob Attacks CRPF Soldiers in Manipur, Ethnic Clashes Escalate

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In a shocking turn of events in Manipur’s Kangpokpi district, a mob targeted soldiers of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) by setting fire to the bus they were travelling in. The incident, which occurred on Monday night, saw the bus carrying CRPF personnel on their way to the Kangpokpi district commissioner’s office being stopped by the violent mob. Fortunately, a fire truck was able to quickly extinguish the blaze, resulting in no injuries reported by the police.

Following the incident, a case was filed against unknown individuals at the Kangpokpi police station, with investigations underway. Police sources have revealed that several suspects in the Kuki-dominated district have been questioned regarding the attack. The bus, registered in the name of an individual from the Meitei community, was hired to transport the CRPF soldiers.

The act of the mob has been linked to a recent incident in Bishnupur district where two trucks were set on fire, carrying construction material for a bridge in Churachandpur. Ethnic tensions between the Meitei and Kuki communities have been escalating, leading to a series of retaliatory actions.

The ongoing clashes have resulted in significant disruptions, such as the blockade of National Highway 37, affecting the transportation of essential supplies including fuel, medicine, and food. The conflict between the communities stems from deep-rooted disagreements over land, resources, affirmative action policies, and political representation.

The escalating violence in Manipur has drawn national attention, with over 220 casualties and more than 50,000 individuals internally displaced. The clashes have highlighted the complexities of ethnic relations in the region, raising concerns about the need for immediate intervention to prevent further escalation of the crisis.