IT News
Imphal, Feb 2:
In a shocking incident on Thursday at around 11:10 am, armed Kuki militants launched a brazen attack on the villages of Thamnapokpi and Naranseina, deploying bombs and gunfire. Reports indicate that the well-equipped Kuki militants initiated the assault from Khoirentak and Leingangtabi villages in Churachandpur district.
The onslaught began with a bomb explosion, followed by sustained gunfire aimed at a post of 2nd IRB at Naranseina and the bunkers of village volunteers near the 2nd IRB post in Amu Loukol. However, the village defenders refrained from retaliating, not firing a single bullet in response to the aggressive attack.
In the aftermath of the assault, a team comprising Meira Paibis of Thamnapokpi, accompanied by media personnel, visited the Lower Canal area to assess the situation. However, they were met with an unexpected calm among the central security forces stationed in the area, seemingly unaware of the attack.
Despite the proximity of the Central Security Forces, including the Sikh Regiment’s mobile unit, merely 200-300 meters away from the attack site, the security presence appeared ineffective in preventing the Kuki militants’ assault.
Expressing concern, Moirangthem Bina, Secretary of Thamnapokpi Apunba Meira Paibi, urged the government to promptly address the ongoing conflict in the state. Bina suggested that if the government cannot resolve the situation, civilians should be given arms to defend themselves. She questioned the efficacy of the Central Security Forces, speculating that the bunkers manned during the day by security forces may be used by militants during the night.
Bina asserted, “It is of no use keeping the Central Security Forces in the area, as they cannot prevent the Kuki militants from launching attacks into Meitei Villages.” Bina emphasized that even with the Central Security Forces stationed in the vicinity, it is the civilians who are opposing the terror activities carried out by the Kuki militants.
This incident adds to a series of similar occurrences where Central Security Forces were criticized for their perceived inaction during attacks by Kuki militants on Meitei villages. Allegations have surfaced, accusing some sections of the Central Forces of aiding the militants in launching such assaults. The incident raises serious questions about the effectiveness of the security measures in place and demands urgent attention from the authorities.
