Imphal: The death toll in the August 27 armed assault along the Imphal-Tamenglong (IT) Road in Manipur’s Kangpokpi district has risen to five. Another critically injured person succumbed to their injuries while being taken to a medical facility.
The attack, allegedly carried out by armed Kuki militants, targeted Naga civilians travelling between Makui Ashang and Thanamba Naga.
Manipur Deputy Chief Minister Losii Dikho, a prominent Naga leader, condemned the attack. He described the incident as barbaric and senseless and said it was an assault on the security and dignity of citizens.
“Every single innocent life lost to such senseless violence is a profound tragedy that cuts deep into our collective conscience,” Deputy CM Dikho stated.
He said the deliberate targeting of non-combatant civilians was reprehensible and could not be justified under any legal, moral or political framework. Dikho also warned that such acts could threaten efforts to restore normalcy and stability in Manipur.
Dikho assured the affected families and the public that the government would provide medical support to the survivors and assistance to the affected households. He expressed condolences to the bereaved families and said he shared their grief.
He also urged all communities to reject violence and maintain peace. Dikho cautioned the public against allowing the latest incident to deepen existing divisions or affect efforts towards lasting peace in the state.