Mob Attack on Indian Reserve Battalion (IRB) in Manipur Thwarted by Security Forces, One Fatality

| 05 July 2023

Thoubal district, Manipur - In a brazen attempt to loot weapons and arms, a mob attacked the Indian Reserve Battalion (IRB) post today, sparking a clash that resulted in the death of one individual among the attackers. The incident unfolded in Manipur's Thoubal district when hundreds of individuals swarmed the IRB post, only to be met with swift and decisive action by security forces.

The Indian Army issued a statement detailing the events that transpired during the attack. According to their account, the mob strategically laid roadblocks in an effort to impede the movement of troops. However, the combined efforts of the Assam Rifles and the Rapid Action Force swiftly brought the situation under control. "An attempt to loot weapons from an India Reserve Battalion at Khangabok in Thoubal district of Manipur was successfully thwarted by security forces today. One rioter was killed while a few others were injured during the failed attempt," stated the Army. They further added, "The mob had laid roadblocks to prevent the movement of reinforcements. However, additional columns of the Assam Rifles and Rapid Action Force were able to induct, and the situation was brought under control by the synergized efforts of security forces."

The state police issued a statement on Monday, acknowledging the tense situation prevailing in several parts of Manipur. The statement highlighted sporadic incidents of violence and revealed that around 118 checkpoints had been established throughout the state. In their ongoing efforts to maintain peace and order, authorities had detained 326 individuals thus far.

The root cause of these clashes can be traced back to May 3, when a Kuki solidarity march organized by the All Tribal Students Union of Manipur (ATSUM) to protest the Meitei community's demand for a Scheduled Tribe state turned violent. Manipur has since been gripped by widespread unrest and periodic outbreaks of violence.

Local authorities have been working diligently to restore calm and stability in the region. However, the recent attack on the IRB post serves as a stark reminder of the challenges faced by security forces in maintaining law and order.

As investigations continue, it is imperative for all stakeholders to engage in dialogue and find peaceful resolutions to the underlying tensions. The government, community leaders, and civil society organizations must collaborate to address the root causes of the conflicts and ensure the safety and security of all residents in Manipur.

The incident in Thoubal district underscores the importance of proactive measures to prevent such incidents from escalating further. Enhanced cooperation between law enforcement agencies and the local community can play a pivotal role in averting future outbreaks of violence.

While Manipur grapples with the aftermath of this attack, it is crucial for all parties involved to exercise restraint and pursue peaceful avenues for resolution. Only through sustained dialogue and a commitment to peaceful coexistence can lasting harmony be achieved in this beautiful region of India.