The All Manipur United Clubs’ Organisation (AMUCO) has strongly condemned the firing incident that left a local farmer injured at Singeirok paddy field near the High Canal in Phubala, Bishnupur district, on June 19. The injured farmer, identified as Ningthoujam Biren of Phubala, reportedly sustained a bullet injury on his left forearm while working alongside other labourers in the field.
In a statement issued to the media, AMUCO said that the farmers were tending to their fields when unidentified armed individuals arrived and opened fire, creating panic and forcing them to flee. One of the farmers, Biren, was struck by a bullet during the chaos. AMUCO expressed serious concern that the incident took place near an area previously used as a bunker by the Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB), raising questions about the functioning and supervision of security forces in the region.
The organisation stated that the attack reflected a complete failure of law and order, particularly under the ongoing President’s Rule in the state. AMUCO asserted that the authorities responsible for maintaining security and order in the area must be held accountable for the violence, which it said was contributing to a worsening sense of fear among civilians.
AMUCO also questioned the effectiveness of the central forces deployed in Manipur and criticised the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) for what it described as misleading claims of “normalcy” returning to the state. The organisation recalled that President’s Rule was imposed on February 13, 2025, following months of unrest that began on May 4, 2023. However, it said the situation has continued to deteriorate, with incidents of violence, killings, and intimidation persisting.
Citing another incident, AMUCO referred to the obstruction of a DIPR-assigned media team by personnel of the Mahar Regiment at Gwaltabi on May 20, during coverage of the Shirui Lily Festival. The organisation said the team was questioned over the use of the word “Manipur” on the government vehicle they were travelling in, calling the action disrespectful to the identity and authority of the state.
According to AMUCO, the June 19 incident highlighted the growing impunity with which civilians are being targeted. It warned that failure to deliver justice could lead the public to believe that such attacks are being carried out either by or with the support of security forces. The organisation demanded that the Governor and the Security Advisor take swift action to prevent further erosion of public trust.
AMUCO further appealed to the people of Manipur to remain alert and united amidst the rising insecurity. It urged the Government of India to take concrete and sincere measures to restore peace and order in Manipur, rather than making unsubstantiated declarations of stability.