Manipur Home Minister Govindas Konthoujam on Monday said the government would not allow violence to derail the state's efforts towards peace and normalcy, a day after four people were killed in separate attacks in Tamenglong and Noney districts.
Two of those killed were women. The incidents have renewed concerns over security in parts of the state, where ethnic tensions and violence have disrupted normal life for several years.
In a post on X, Konthoujam said he was deeply anguished by the attack at Tollen Kuki village, where a woman, Lhingjangai Singsit, was killed. Her husband, Seineih Singsit, and their infant son were also injured in the shooting.
According to officials, suspected militants attacked the family inside their residence at Tollen Kuki village, located near NH-37, the key highway connecting Imphal with Jiribam. Seineih later succumbed to his injuries while being taken to a hospital in Silchar, Assam.
The minister condemned the attack on civilians and said those responsible would face legal action. He directed the authorities to establish the facts surrounding the incident, identify the perpetrators and ensure that the law was enforced without fear or favour.
“Violence against innocent civilians is unacceptable and will be dealt with firmly,” Konthoujam said.
He further assured people that the government remained committed to protecting peace and maintaining normalcy in the state. The minister said no act of violence would be permitted to undermine the ongoing efforts towards restoring stability.
The killings took place on September 13, coinciding with “Sahnit Ni”, or Black Day, observed annually by the Kuki community to remember victims of ethnic violence during the Kuki-Naga conflict of the 1990s.
Another shooting was reported later on Sunday in Longpi village under the jurisdiction of Nungba Police Station. According to the report, an armed group allegedly shot dead a woman and a man at around 3:30 pm.
The latest incidents come against the backdrop of continuing security challenges in Manipur. Authorities are now investigating the attacks and working to establish the identities and motives of those responsible.
The state government has stressed that maintaining law and order and protecting civilians remain priorities. The Home Minister said security agencies had been instructed to take all necessary measures and pursue those responsible through the legal process.
The incidents have also highlighted the vulnerability of civilians in areas affected by prolonged conflict. Families living in remote villages continue to face concerns over their safety, particularly in regions where armed groups operate.
Konthoujam reiterated that the government would continue working towards peace and normalcy and that justice would be pursued in the latest cases.
As investigations continue, authorities are expected to examine the circumstances surrounding both attacks and take further security measures to prevent similar incidents. The government has maintained that violence will not be allowed to disrupt Manipur’s return towards stability and peace.
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