What Led to the Protests in Manipur After the Ambush?
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Synopsis
Protests erupted in Manipur's Nambol following a deadly ambush that claimed the lives of two Assam Rifles personnel. Community members, predominantly women, voiced their outrage, demanding accountability and security. As security forces intensify their search for the attackers, the incident underscores the region's ongoing struggles with violence and unrest.
Key Takeaways
- Protests erupted in Nambol, Manipur, against the ambush.
- Two Assam Rifles personnel were killed, and five others were injured.
- Community members are demanding justice and enhanced safety.
- Security forces are actively searching for the attackers.
- This incident marks a significant violent occurrence in the region.
Imphal, Sep 20 (NationPress) Residents of all ages, predominantly women, in Nambol, located in the Bishnupur district of Manipur, organized significant protests on Saturday condemning the fatal attack on two personnel from the Assam Rifles and the injuries sustained by five others during an ambush in the region.
A police representative indicated that extensive search operations by joint Central and state forces are ongoing to apprehend the assailants.
During the search on Saturday, security forces intercepted a Maruti van believed to have been utilized by the armed attackers involved in the ambush at Nambol Sabal Leikai.
The ambush resulted in the deaths of two Assam Rifles personnel, including a Naib-Subedar, and left five others injured when unidentified armed militants targeted a vehicle of the paramilitary force along the Imphal-Dimapur National Highway (NH-2) in the Nambol Sabal Leikai area of Bishnupur district.
A defense spokesperson stated that a contingent of Assam Rifles was transitioning from its Patsoi company operating base to the Nambol company operating base when it was ambushed by unknown terrorists on the highway in the denotified area of Manipur.
The ambush claimed the lives of two Assam Rifles personnel and injured five, who were subsequently transported to the Regional Institute of Medical Sciences (RIMS) in Imphal, where they are reported to be stable.
The deceased personnel include Naib-Subedar Shyam Gurung (59) from Meghalaya's East Khasi Hills and Rifleman Ranjit Singh Kashyap (36) from Bastar district in Chhattisgarh.
Previously, the Armed Forces (Special Power) Act of 1958 (AFSPA) had been lifted from the Nambol Sabal Leikai area.
No militant group has yet claimed responsibility for this attack, marking the first significant violent incident following the imposition of President's Rule in Manipur on February 13 of this year.
A significant turnout of women and men across various age groups gathered in Nambol, approximately one kilometer from the ambush site, vocally opposing the brutal assault on the paramilitary personnel on Friday.
During the demonstration, protestors showcased placards with powerful statements such as, “We condemn the attack”, “Condemn attack on Assam Rifles”, and “Condemn gunfire in public spaces”.
The demonstrators also expressed their outrage through chants that echoed their placard messages, strongly denouncing the attack and emphasizing the urgency for safety and security in public areas.
Police officials noted that this show of solidarity reflects the community's resolve to reject such violent acts.
Subsequently, women organized a protest rally, further condemning the heinous assault.
A tense calm settled over the Imphal West and Bishnupur districts on Saturday, as the identities of the armed attackers remain undisclosed.
Point of View
I observe that the protests in Manipur reflect a community deeply affected by violence. The tragic ambush on Assam Rifles personnel is a wake-up call for the authorities. It highlights not only the need for enhanced security measures but also the community's resilience and determination to stand against violence. The voices of the people must be heard, and their demand for safety in public spaces is paramount.
NationPress
20/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What happened in Nambol, Manipur?
A deadly ambush occurred on Assam Rifles personnel in Nambol, killing two and injuring five others.
Who were the victims of the ambush?
The deceased were Naib-Subedar Shyam Gurung and Rifleman Ranjit Singh Kashyap, both associated with the Assam Rifles.
What actions are authorities taking?
Security forces are conducting extensive search operations to apprehend the attackers involved in the ambush.
What was the community's response?
Residents held massive protests, particularly women, condemning the attack and demanding safety measures.
Has any group claimed responsibility for the ambush?
No militant group has claimed responsibility for the ambush so far.
