Manipur: Bomb explodes just before Independence day celebrations

, Aug 15: A powerful bomb exploded a few minutes before the celebrations of Independence day on Thursday in Manipur but no casualty was reported.

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The bomb, planted by insurgents, went off at around 8.20 am at Moirangkhom petrol pump area, about 400 metres from the 1st Manipur rifles parade ground where the main function of the I-Day celebrations would be held from 9 am with Chief Minister Okram Ibobi Singh as the chief guest.

Police said the bomb, planted at road side and handiwork of insurgent outfits, was of a low intensity but sound of the explosion was heard from a distance.

Senior police officials who were present at the venue of the I-Day celebrations rushed to the spot and blocked all exit routes before checking passers-by at the nearby areas.

The site of Thursday's explosion is about one km from the residence of Chief Minister and police headquarters.

PTI