Security Tightened, Internet Cut in 5 Manipur Districts After Two Children Die

The Manipur government on Tuesday suspended internet and mobile data services for three days in five districts following unrest over the death of two children in a suspected rocket attack. Authorities imposed the shutdown in Imphal West, Imphal East, Thoubal, Kakching and Bishnupur districts with immediate effect to control the deteriorating law and order situation.

Protests erupted across the state after a suspected rocket struck a house in Bishnupur district early Tuesday morning, killing a five-month-old baby girl and a five-year-old boy. The attack also injured their mother. Officials rushed the victims to a hospital in Imphal, but doctors declared the two children dead.

Angry protesters attempted to storm a CRPF camp in Moirang, while demonstrators set oil tankers ablaze in response to the attack.

What Happened

Suspected Kuki militants allegedly carried out the attack around 1:03 am in Moirang Tronglaobi Awang Leikai. A projectile hit the bedroom window of a Border Security Force (BSF) personnel’s residence while the family was asleep, triggering a powerful explosion and panic across the village.

The village, located near the foothills of Churachandpur district, has remained vulnerable due to its proximity to areas where armed groups are believed to operate. Tronglaobi lies about 46 km from the state capital Imphal and previously witnessed a rocket attack in September 2024 that killed a 72-year-old man and injured five others.

Investigators also recovered another rocket-propelled grenade (RPG) planted near the incident site.

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Government Response

Manipur Home Minister K. Govindas condemned the attack on social media platform X. He described the incident as a “barbaric early morning act” and assured that authorities would take strict action against those responsible. He confirmed that officials have launched an active investigation.

Security forces have increased deployment in the region and placed the area on high alert. Authorities have launched search operations and intensified surveillance in nearby hill areas to prevent further escalation.

Background of Tensions

Manipur has remained sensitive since ethnic violence broke out between the Meitei and Kuki communities in May 2023. A Manipur High Court order granting certain benefits to the Meitei community — including land rights in protected areas and job quotas — triggered widespread unrest. Although incidents of violence declined in 2025 after prolonged clashes, peace in the state remains fragile.

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