Shillong, August 18: In a fresh outbreak of violence, three individuals lost their lives during an early morning exchange of gunfire with armed individuals in Manipur’s Ukhrul district.
The tragic incident unfolded in Thowai Kuki village, resulting in the demise of three villagers, as reported by India Today.
Amidst the sounds of heavy gunfire, three individuals were initially reported missing from the village. In response, concerned villagers embarked on a search operation and later discovered the lifeless bodies.
The victims have been identified as Jamkhogin Haokip (26), Thangkhokai Haokip (35), and Hollenson Baite (24).
This event marks the latest addition to the ongoing violence that has affected Manipur. The region has been grappling with ethnic clashes since May 3, sparked by a ‘Tribal Solidarity March’ opposing the Meitei community’s request for Scheduled Tribe status. The toll stands at over 120 fatalities and more than 3,000 injuries due to the unrest.
In an attempt to restore normalcy, approximately 40,000 central security personnel, in conjunction with the Manipur Police, have been deployed to quell the violence and reinstate stability in the state.
