Manipur Violence: Assam Rifles Troops Exchange Gunfire With Unknown Men

Amid escalating tensions in Manipur, Assam Rifles troops exchanged gunfire with unknown men early Thursday morning at North Boljang in Imphal West district.

The exchange of fire occurred amid fresh bouts of violence in the strife-torn Manipur where armed forces have been deployed to bring the situation under control and crack down on rioters.

As per the initial reports, the situation has been brought under control, and combing operations are underway.

At least three civilians were injured in a bomb blast on Wednesday evening. The explosion took place in Bishnupur's Kwakta, an area severely affected by the ongoing ethnic violence that has plagued the state for nearly two months, according to reports.

The bomb, which was planted in an SUV parked near a culvert, detonated with considerable force. One of the injured individuals is reported to be in critical condition.

Amit Shah's all-party meeting

Nearly 50 days after ethnic violence erupted in Manipur, Union Home Minister Amit Shah convened an all-party meeting on June 24 to discuss the situation in the State.

"Union Home Minister Amit Shah has convened an all-party meeting on 24th June at 3 PM in New Delhi to discuss the situation in Manipur," a home ministry spokesperson tweeted.

Sonia Gandhi on Manipur

Congress leader Sonia Gandhi on Wednesday issued an appeal for peace in violence-hit Manipur and said the unprecedented violence that has devastated the lives of people of the state has left a deep wound on the nation's conscience.

In a video message shared by the Congress on social media, she expressed sadness that people were forced to flee the only place they called home and leave behind all that they had built over their lifetime.

"It is heartbreaking to witness our brothers and sisters who have coexisted peacefully turn against each other," she said in her message.

Gandhi said the history of Manipur stands testament to its ability to embrace people of all ethnicities, religions and backgrounds, and the myriad possibilities of a diverse society.