Manipur Chief Minister, Yumnam Khemchand Singh on Wednesday strongly condemned the killing of three civilians and the injuring of four others in an ambush by unidentified armed miscreants in Kangpokpi district.
In a statement, the Chief Minister described the attack as a “dastardly act of terror” after armed assailants opened fire on civilians between the Kotlen and Kotzim areas, killing three persons and injuring four others.
Of the injured, three were shifted to a hospital in Imphal for treatment. Singh, accompanied by Deputy Chief Minister Losii Dikho, Home Minister Konthoujam Govindas Singh, legislators and senior officials, visited the injured at a hospital in Imphal West district and enquired about their condition.
The Chief Minister announced that the state government would bear all medical expenses and directed authorities to ensure the injured received the best possible treatment.
“This act of violence is deeply troubling and devastating not only for the affected families but for the entire state, as it disrupts our path towards peace. Our state is gradually moving towards normalcy, and actions that undermine the collective efforts of the people to restore peace are unacceptable,” Singh stated.
He asserted that terrorism and senseless violence targeting innocent civilians had no place in a civilised society and said the people of the state stood united against such acts.
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Appealing for calm, the Chief Minister urged all sections of society to maintain peace and avoid emotional reactions. He also appealed for an immediate halt to abductions, hostage-taking and intimidation based on community lines, warning that such actions would further aggravate the situation.
Singh assured that the government would use all available resources to identify and bring the perpetrators to justice.
Meanwhile, Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio also strongly condemned the killing of a delegation of Church leaders in Manipur. He stated that such barbaric and senseless violence against innocent lives is unacceptable and has no place in any civilised society.
Expressing deep sorrow over the tragedy, Rio conveyed condolences to the bereaved families, the church community, and the people of Manipur, while praying for strength and comfort for all those affected in the tragedy.
Patton condemns attack on Church leaders
Nagaland Deputy Chief Minister, Y Patton has expressed deep sorrow over the killing of three leaders of the Thadou Baptist Association India (TBAI) in the tragic ambush that took place on Wednesday morning between Kotlen and Kotzim villages in Manipur.
He strongly condemned the attack carried out on two vehicles carrying Church leaders and members who were travelling on an official and spiritual mission. He also expressed concern for those injured in the incident and prayed for their speedy recovery.
Y Patton stated that such acts of violence against unarmed Church leaders and innocent citizens are unacceptable and deeply disturbing. He extended condolences to the bereaved families, the Thadou Baptist Association India, and the wider Thadou community during this difficult time.
He further urged the concerned authorities to ensure a fair and timely investigation so that those responsible for the attack are identified and brought to justice according to law. He also appealed to all communities to maintain peace and harmony and not allow the incident to create further tension in the region.
Patton prayed for strength and comfort for the grieving families and for peace and healing to prevail in Manipur.
(with IANS inputs)
