Imphal, June 23: A fresh gunfight has broken out between security forces and suspected armed groups in Gwaltabi, located along the Imphal-Ukhrul road in Manipur. The armed men, believed to have infiltrated from Yaingangpokpi (YKPI) in Imphal East district, opened fire with automatic weapons towards Urangpat and Gwaltabi villages.
The ongoing clash, which started at noon on Friday near Yaingangpokpi bazaar, continues at the time of this report. So far, there have been no reported casualties or injuries. The incident follows recent unrest in the region, adding to the growing concerns surrounding ethnic violence in Manipur.
According to reliable sources, armed individuals made their way into the hills after entering from Yaingangpokpi. Upon reaching Gwaltabi, they initiated the gunfight by opening fire on the villages.
In response, security forces were swiftly deployed to the affected areas. However, their movement was impeded by a large group of women who had gathered in protest. Reports suggest that hundreds of women have blocked the passage of Army and private vehicles coming from Imphal. Additionally, vehicles traveling from Ukhrul toward Imphal are being halted at Mahadev and redirected.
The gunfight at Gwaltabi follows a similar incident that took place in North Boljang, Imphal West district, where two soldiers were injured after unidentified gunmen fired at them early Thursday morning. Search operations conducted by security forces resulted in the recovery of an INSAS light machine gun and an INSAS rifle.
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Earlier in the week, on Wednesday evening, the sound of automatic small arms fire was heard near Urangpat, north of YKPI. These incidents have caused concern and unease among the local population.
The situation has led to the disruption of normal activities in the affected areas. Business establishments have been forced to close, and many vehicles traveling between Ukhrul and Imphal are now stranded, awaiting the resolution of the conflict. The continuous clash between armed groups and security forces has created an atmosphere of tension and uncertainty in the region.
The recent outbreak of violence in Manipur is not an isolated incident. Since May 3 of this year, more than 100 people have lost their lives in the ongoing ethnic violence between the Meitei and Kuki communities. The clashes have resulted in a significant loss of lives and have strained social harmony in the state. It is crucial for authorities to address the root causes of the conflict and take effective measures to ensure peace and stability.
The fresh gunfight in Gwaltabi along the Imphal-Ukhrul road highlights the continued unrest and violence plaguing Manipur. The clash between armed groups and security forces, coupled with the recent incidents in the region, has raised concerns among the local population.
The blocking of roads by protesting women and the disruption of daily activities further add to the tense situation. It is imperative for the authorities to work towards resolving the conflict, promoting dialogue, and restoring peace in Manipur.
Efforts should focus on addressing the underlying issues fueling ethnic violence and fostering reconciliation between communities for a harmonious future.
