1. Gunfire near Thamanpokpi polling station during Manipur’s Lok Sabha polls causes panic among voters.
2. Fortunately, there were no reported casualties from the incident.
3. Voters flee in fear as miscreants fire rounds near Moirang Assembly segment polling station.
Imphal, April 19: Amid the commencement of Lok Sabha polls in Manipur, a disturbing incident unfolded as a group of miscreants fired several rounds near a polling station in Thamanpokpi, Moirang Assembly segment, on Friday. Fortunately, there were no reported casualties from the incident.
The gunfire sparked panic among voters who had gathered to cast their votes, prompting them to flee the polling booth in fear. A viral video captured the chaotic scene as people scrambled for safety amidst the sound of gunfire.
The first phase of polling for the Inner Manipur Lok Sabha seat and parts of Outer Manipur proceeded under tight security measures.
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However, Manipur has been grappling with ethnic tensions, particularly between the majority of Meiteis in the Imphal Valley and the Kuki-Zo tribal community, resulting in sporadic incidents of unrest.
In addition to the shooting incident, isolated clashes were reported in various places, including a scuffle between locals and unidentified individuals in the Thongju Assembly constituency under the Inner Manipur Lok Sabha seat.
Despite the unsettling events, Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh cast his vote at Luwangsangbam Mamang Leikai and issued a fervent appeal to the electorate.
He emphasized the importance of voting to safeguard the state’s indigenous population and uphold its territorial integrity, urging voters to prioritize peace and stability.
Singh also rallied support for the BJP’s ally, the Naga People’s Front (NPF), highlighting the party’s commitment to backing Prime Minister Modi for a third term.
Encouraging voters to strengthen Modi’s leadership, Singh underscored the significance of casting ballots for the BJP to ensure continued progress and development in Manipur.
