Manipur Chief Minister N. Biren Singh on Tuesday condemned recent drone bomb attacks on civilians, labelling them as acts of terrorism.
Singh expressed his outrage on X (formerly known as Twitter), stating, “Dropping bombs on civilian populations and security forces using drones is an act of terrorism, and I condemn such cowardly acts in the strongest terms.” His comments followed two drone bomb attacks in Koutruk and Senjam Chirang in Imphal West district, which resulted in two deaths, including a woman, and injuries to 12 others.
Singh assured that the Manipur state government will respond decisively to these terrorist acts targeting the indigenous population. He emphasised the state’s unity against violence, hate, and separatism. This incident marks the first use of drones in bomb attacks in the state, signifying a significant escalation in the conflict.
In response, the Manipur Police have formed a five-member “high-level committee” to investigate the use of drones by militants. The committee will be headed by Additional DGP (Intelligence) Ashutosh Kumar Sinha and will include representatives from the Indian Army, Assam Rifles, CRPF, and BSF. This comes after the recovery of a drone from Kharam Vaiphei village during search operations, along with arms and explosives.
Meanwhile, three persons, including a 23-year-old woman, were injured in a fresh drone bomb attack in Senjam Chirang locality on Monday evening. Security forces have intensified operations in response to these escalating attacks.
As Prime Minister Narendra Modi began his visit to Brunei and Singapore, Congress criticised his absence from Manipur, asking when the “frequent flyer” would make a “humanitarian” visit to the troubled state. Congress leader Jairam Ramesh expressed disbelief that the Prime Minister has yet to visit Manipur, where violence between the Meitei and Kuki communities has claimed over 200 lives since May last year.
