In the midst of escalating violence in Manipur, a mob stormed and set fire to the residence of Union Minister of State for External Affairs, RK Ranjan Singh, in Kongba. This incident occurred just two days after a sharp escalation of violence resulted in the deaths of nine people and injuries to ten others. Despite the presence of nine security escort personnel, five security guards, and eight additional guards, the mob attacked the house using petrol bombs from various directions. L. Dineshwor Singh, the Escort Commander, stated that the overwhelming nature of the mob made it impossible for them to control the situation. This is the second attack on the minister’s house, with the previous incident occurring in May when security personnel had to fire shots in the air to disperse the mob.
The ongoing ethnic violence between the Meitei and Kuki communities in Manipur has claimed more than 100 lives and left 310 people injured. In response to the situation, the army and paramilitary forces have been deployed to restore peace in the state. The clashes initially began on May 3 when a ‘Tribal Solidarity March’ was organized by the hill districts to protest against the Meitei community’s demand for Scheduled Tribe (ST) status.
RK Ranjan Singh, who serves as the Minister of State for External Affairs and Education, recently held a meeting with intellectuals from the Meitei and Kuki communities to discuss strategies for bringing peace to the violence-stricken northeast state. The attack on the minister’s residence further highlights the volatile situation in Manipur and the challenges faced in restoring stability amidst the ongoing clashes. Efforts continue to be made to address the underlying issues and find a path towards reconciliation and peace.
