Thu Nov 21 19:57:09 UTC 2024: ## CRPF Foils Manipur Terror Attack, Preventing Mass Casualties; 10 Militants Killed

**Imphal, Manipur –** A deadly terror attack in Manipur’s Jiribam district was thwarted by the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), preventing what Chief Minister N Biren Singh described as a potential massacre. Ten Kuki militants, armed with rocket launchers and AK-47s, attempted to storm a relief camp housing 115 internally displaced Meitei civilians on November 11th. In the ensuing gunfight, all ten militants were killed, though one CRPF soldier was injured.

The attack, which began with the militants killing two civilians and taking six more hostage, highlights the escalating violence in the state. The six hostages—a woman, her infant, her two-year-old son, her mother, sister, and niece—were subsequently murdered and their bodies dumped in a river. Police recovered assault rifles and an RPG launcher from the militants, refuting claims by Kuki groups that the deceased were merely village volunteers.

Prior to the main attack, another group of militants vandalized and set fire to houses, resulting in further casualties. Chief Minister Singh emphasized the CRPF’s crucial role in preventing a far greater loss of life at the relief camp. He stated that the state cabinet has initiated a move to officially declare the militants involved as a terrorist organization.

The incident has triggered widespread protests, with the Chief Minister attributing vandalism during some demonstrations to politically motivated groups rather than the general public who, he claims, were peacefully protesting the killings.

The attack comes amid ongoing conflict between the Meitei and Kuki communities, fueled by long-standing grievances over land rights, resources, and political representation. The Chief Minister also highlighted a concerning rise in poppy cultivation in Kangpokpi district, blaming the current security situation for enabling this illicit activity. He confirmed ongoing peace talks involving the central government and representatives from both communities. However, despite efforts at reconciliation, the violence continues to disrupt life across several districts of Manipur. The Chief Minister also downplayed the impact of the National People’s Party withdrawing support from his government, expressing confidence in retaining his majority.

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