Manipur: Police Officer Fatally Shot by Suspected Tribal Militants in Moreh

IMPHAL: A sub-divisional police officer (SDPO) met a tragic end on Tuesday in Moreh, Manipur, as he was fatally shot by suspected tribal militants, according to local law enforcement authorities.

Moreh SDPO Chingtham Anand sustained a bullet injury during an inspection of the newly constructed helipad at Eastern ground in Moreh, a border town primarily inhabited by the Kuki-Zo community. The assailants, believed to be insurgents, opened fire on the police personnel during their inspection.

Following the attack, SDPO Anand was rushed to a nearby primary health center in Moreh. Regrettably, he succumbed to his injuries while receiving medical care, as confirmed by a senior police official.

In response to this tragic incident, a comprehensive operation has been launched in the area with the intent of locating and apprehending the individuals responsible for the attack, the senior officer added.

This occurrence transpires amidst weeks of escalating tension, marked by demands from various civil society organizations, particularly those based in Moreh, for the withdrawal of state forces from the border town. The situation has remained fraught with underlying issues.

Recent days have witnessed the arrest of over ten individuals from Myanmar who were accused of pilfering furniture and other household items from abandoned residences belonging to the Meiteis and for illegally entering Indian territory.

In connection with these incidents, Manipur's Chief Minister N. Biren Singh commented on the arrest of three Myanmarese individuals on October 21, who were apprehended for stealing furniture and electrical items from houses that were previously ravaged during violence in the state in May. The Chief Minister remarked, "This happened when some particular organizations were protesting against the deployment of state police and commandos at Moreh town."

The violence that initially erupted on May 3, during a 'Tribal Solidarity March,' has resulted in the loss of over 180 lives. The march was organized in response to the Meitei community's demand for Scheduled Tribe (ST) status. The Meiteis make up approximately 53 percent of Manipur's population and predominantly reside in the Imphal Valley, while the tribal communities, including Nagas and Kukis, constitute 40 percent and are primarily concentrated in the hill districts. The ongoing tensions underscore the complex interplay of identities and demands within the state of Manipur.

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