Manipur Chief Minister Assures Relief After Ambush Killings

Imphal, October 26: Manipur Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh visited the families of three Meitei men killed in an ambush, as protests continue across the Imphal Valley. On Monday, he assured the bereaved families that the state government would provide all possible support.

A senior official in the Chief Minister's Office said Singh visited Nongshum in Imphal East district. There he met the families of three men who were ambushed and killed on October 19. The incident took place near the boundary between Imphal East and Kangpokpi districts, and suspected armed militants were blamed.

The deceased were identified as Arubam Ronil, Lairenlakpam Inaobi and Kshetrimayum Sushil.

Singh conveyed his deep grief to the families and said the government stood united with them. MLA Khemchand Singh and Thokchom Lokeshwar Singh were also present during the meeting with the grieving relatives.

The Chief Minister met Joint Action Committee (JAC) representatives as well. He patiently listened to their demand for justice and to their other concerns. He told them that every justified demand would be considered carefully and in good faith.

Returning from Nongshum, Singh visited a private hospital in North AOC, Imphal, with Lamlai MLA Kh. Ibomcha Singh. He sought information about the health of two civilians injured in the October 19 attack.

He directed the hospital administration to provide the best possible treatment and wished the injured a swift and complete recovery.

Home Minister Konthoujam Govindas Singh had earlier stated that a joint team of central and state security forces was continuing a search operation in Kangpokpi district. The team aims to arrest all persons involved in the killing of the three Meitei men.

Various organisations in the Imphal Valley are holding protests, condemning the killings and demanding the restoration of peace and normalcy. The demonstrations come during a shutdown that has been ongoing in the region since last week. The five districts affected are Imphal East, Imphal West, Thoubal, Bishnupur and Kakching, where the Meitei community mostly lives.