Tue Nov 26 17:57:17 UTC 2024: ## Missing Supervisor Sparks Tension in Violence-Hit Manipur

**Imphal, Manipur:** The disappearance of a Meitei community supervisor working at an army base in Manipur has ignited tension in Kangpokpi district, approximately 40 km from the state capital, Imphal. Laishram Kamal Babu, a supervisor for a Military Engineering Service (MES) contractor at the Leimakhong army base, has been missing since Monday.

Babu’s wife issued a video appeal, urging the government and the army to assist in the search. The family, originally from Cachar in Assam, has lived in Imphal West district for some time.

The Indian Army has launched a large-scale search operation, employing helicopters and ground teams in coordination with local police. Despite extensive efforts, including the use of sniffer dogs, Babu and his two-wheeler remain missing. CCTV footage in the area has not captured his movements. Army officials have met with residents to assure them of their commitment to finding him.

Adding to the concerns, Babu’s phone was switched off between 1 pm and 3 pm on Monday, according to a friend. While entry to the army base is strictly controlled, Babu’s family claims gate logs indicate he entered but did not exit.

The incident has fueled anxieties in the already volatile region, marked by ethnic clashes between the Meitei and Kuki communities and a rise in extortion activities. Hundreds of Meitei community members protested near the army base, demanding Babu’s safe return. The army has temporarily restricted access to the base for crowd control. The investigation continues.

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