A farmer working in the fields in Imphal East district of Manipur sustained injuries on Monday morning after suspected militants from nearby hills opened fire, marking the third consecutive day of violence targeting farmers in the conflict-torn state.
The incident occurred around 9:20 am when militants positioned on a hilltop in Kangpokpi district allegedly fired at farmers working in the paddy fields of Yaingangpokpi Shantikhongban, Imphal East.
According to a police official, one farmer was injured by pellet fire on his hand and was subsequently taken to Yaingangpokpi PHC for treatment. Fortunately, he is reported to be out of danger.
Security forces responded swiftly, engaging the militants in a brief exchange of gunfire before the assailants retreated.
This incident follows a troubling pattern of attacks targeting valley-based farmers, raising fears of going to the fields amid ongoing ethnic tension between the valley-based Meitei and hill-based Kuki communities.
In the preceding days, similar attacks occurred in Sanasabi, Sabungkhok Khunou, and Thamnapokpi in Imphal East district. On Saturday, a 34-year-old female farmer tragically lost her life in Bishnupur district’s Saiton area when suspected militants from Churachandpur district reportedly opened fire.
More than 200 people have been killed and thousands displaced in Manipur since ethnic violence erupted last May, impacting the lives of communities across the region.
Officials report that these attacks have disrupted the critical paddy harvest season, as many farmers in peripheral areas are increasingly fearful of working in the fields.
Follow us
