Imphal: Two BJP MLAs in Manipur on January 6 strongly condemned the serial bomb explosions in Bishnupur district that injured two civilians, including a woman.
They warned that the incident appeared to be a deliberate attempt to derail ongoing efforts to restore peace and normalcy in the violence-hit state.
BJP MLA Khongbantabam Ibomcha Singh termed the blasts “highly condemnable.” He said the explosions aimed to prolong instability at a time when multiple stakeholders are working towards reconciliation.
“The Government of India, civil society groups, the Manipur government under President’s Rule, and BJP Manipur Pradesh are making all efforts to restore peace,” Ibomcha said. “Amid this, the serial blasts at Saiton are unfortunate and clearly an attempt to sabotage the peace process.”
He made the remarks while attending the 51st foundation day celebration of the Manipur Press Club as the guest of honour.
Ibomcha alleged that some elements were opposed to the return of normalcy. He said such miscreants existed in both hill and valley areas.
“Peace is close to prevailing in Manipur. However, some people do not want peace and are creating disturbances,” he said.
Meanwhile, Ibomcha said BJP MLAs had discussed the incident but decided to refrain from detailed comments until investigations were completed.
“The incident is confusing. Two bombs exploded early in the morning at an abandoned house. Another explosion occurred around 8 pm, injuring two civilians. A thorough probe is necessary,” he added.
Highlighting the Centre’s role, Ibomcha said the Government of India has initiated talks with all communities. He said efforts are also underway to reinstate an elected government in the state.
“For the return of a popular government, a peaceful atmosphere is essential,” he said, warning that dissolving the Assembly could delay elections indefinitely.
Separately, BJP MLA Yumnam Khemchand Singh also condemned the blast at Saiton Nganukon village under the Kumbi Assembly constituency.
In a statement, Khemchand said the injured victims are undergoing treatment at Jawaharlal Nehru Hospital in Imphal. He prayed for their speedy recovery.
He said the explosion once again exposed the fragile security situation in Manipur.
Khemchand noted that the incident occurred when civil society organisations are actively working to restore peace. He also recalled a recent firing incident at Torbung, warning that such developments could derail reconciliation efforts.
Questioning the timing of the blast, he said it took place when the Centre and the President’s Rule administration are trying to stabilise the situation and facilitate the return of internally displaced persons from both communities.
He further warned that conflicts in neighbouring Myanmar and Bangladesh could be spilling over into the Northeast. According to him, the fresh violence raised suspicion of a possible external hand exploiting the unrest in Manipur.
Khemchand urged the Centre to ensure a thorough investigation and take firm action against those responsible. He stressed that lasting peace requires timely and decisive intervention.
According to officials, a series of bomb explosions occurred at Saiton Nganukon in Bishnupur district on Sunday.
Two bombs exploded in quick succession at an abandoned house in Nganukon Ward No. 8 around 5.41 am. As villagers gathered at the spot, two more explosions followed, injuring two civilians, including a woman.
Security forces later rushed to the area and launched search and sanitisation operations to rule out the presence of more explosive devices.