Manipur NPP MLA M. Rameshwar condemned the firing incident, terming it a “cruel act,” and appealed to the present government to punish those involved who are trying to destroy and derail the peace efforts that have been ongoing for months.
He also appealed for necessary precautionary measures so that no other factors disturb the peace process and to help bring peace to the state.
Earlier in the day, NPP State President Dr Lorho Pfoze and Vice President I. Hemochandra strongly condemned those with vested interests who are sabotaging peace efforts to bring normalcy to Manipur after a prolonged period free from hostility.
The incident has triggered widespread panic among residents and heightened tension over security in the area. The firing came just hours after Manipur DGP Rajiv Singh visited the neighbouring Churachandpur district, where he chaired a comprehensive review meeting to assess the prevailing security situation and preparedness.
It may be mentioned that Torbung and Phougakchao Ikhai were among the first flashpoints of ethnic violence that erupted on May 3, 2023, between the Meitei and Kuki communities.
