Renewed Violence Erupts in Manipur's Bishnupur District

Recent clashes in Bishnupur district, Manipur, have raised alarms about escalating violence in the region. Following a period of calm, gunfire and shelling were reported, causing panic among residents who had just returned home after years of displacement. Local officials confirmed no injuries but emphasized the tense atmosphere. The incident has reignited fears reminiscent of previous ethnic violence, prompting community leaders to demand increased security measures. As investigations continue, the situation remains precarious, with families once again seeking refuge. This article delves into the unfolding events and the community's response to the renewed unrest.

By Narendra Chaudhary Dec 17, 2025, 17:47 IST

Fresh Clashes Reported in Manipur

Imphal, Dec 17: Following a brief period of tranquility, new reports of gunfire and shelling emerged from Torbung Mamang Leikai in Bishnupur district, Manipur, on Tuesday night, sparking concerns of escalating violence in the region.

According to a senior official, there were no injuries reported from the incident. The district remains in a state of calm, albeit tense, with no further gunfire reported since the initial outbreak. Additional security personnel have been deployed to the outskirts of Bishnupur as a precautionary measure, and an investigation is currently underway, although no arrests have been made yet.

The gunfire caused panic among residents who had recently returned to their homes near Phougakchao Ikhai after nearly two years of displacement.

Many families, especially women and children, sought refuge elsewhere following the incident, as confirmed by the official.

This exchange of fire occurred shortly after Director General of Police Rajiv Singh's visit to Churachandpur district, where he met with senior law enforcement officials.

Singh conducted a thorough review meeting to evaluate the current security landscape and preparedness, as stated by the police.

Shyamsundar Oinam, the last Meitei resident of Torbung Mamang Leikai, recounted that the incident began around 8:45 PM while his family was having dinner.

"I was just about to eat when I heard gunshots," Oinam reported, claiming that numerous bullets from automatic weapons struck his property during the assault.

He noted that the firing persisted for over 20 minutes, with heavy artillery, including rocket-propelled grenades (RPGs) and 81-mm mortars, reportedly utilized.

Oinam stated that seven to eight mortar rounds were fired, compelling his family to seek shelter as the situation intensified.

"My only request to the government is to ensure the safety of those who remain here through adequate security measures," Oinam expressed.

His wife, Aparna, mentioned that they initially thought the gunfire would cease after a few rounds, but it continued for an extended period.

She recalled the traumatic events of May 3, 2023, when nearby villages were set ablaze amid ethnic violence.

"The memories of that day and the horrific experiences we endured resurfaced," she said, adding that their family has only been able to stay in the area due to the presence of the CRPF and the Army.

Aparna also noted that elderly family members remain in relief camps and have not been able to return home.

In the aftermath of the incident, local villagers approached the Phougakchao Ikhai Police Station, urging for consistent and adequate security in the area.

They met with Inspector General of Police Rakesh Bawal and Bishnupur Superintendent of Police Shankar Deba.

Residents engaged in a lengthy discussion with senior police officials, sharing their fears, security concerns, and ongoing anxiety about returning to normalcy.

Meanwhile, the Coordination Committee on Manipur Integrity (COCOMI) has condemned the firing incident.

"COCOMI considers such public endorsement of armed violence as a violation of constitutional values and democratic principles," the prominent civic organization stated in a release on December 17.

The group has called for the immediate filing of FIRs under applicable legal provisions and urged that the investigation be assigned to a senior-level or special investigation team, given the serious and sensitive nature of the situation.