Imphal, January 25: Even as security was beefed all over the State ahead of the Republic Day celebration, suspected militants struck in a big way killing one Sub-Inspector of the State Police Commandos while three commandos were injured today at about 8.20 pm at Bishnupur bazar near the UCO Bank.

The deceased is identified as RK Ratan of Thangmeiband Kabrabam Leikai.

Sources said that the militants opened fire while the police personnel were on frisking duty ahead of the Republic Day celebration at about 8.20 pm.

The police personnel also returned fire and a fierce gun fight ensued till 8.45 pm.

The three injured have been identified as Constables E Jayenta of Heirok, A Surchandra of Heirok and Yumnam Tiken of Langthabal.

Sources said Jayenta is in a critical condition.

All have been rushed to JN Hospital.

Jayenta received three bullet injuries, one on the abdomen, one on the left calf and one on the left thigh.

He has been wheeled into the operation theatre.

Surchandra and Tiken suffered one bullet injury each on the elbow.

Meanwhile the general strike called by the MPLF came into force from 1 am of January 26 and would remain in force till 6 pm the same day.

To pre-empt any untoward incident, security was beefed up all over the State especially in Imphal areas.

From evening onwards, security personnel were deployed at all the strategic points.

Passers by and motorists were frisked at regular intervals.

Night curfew which was clamped since January 16 is still in force.

BSF troops have been pressed into service particularly in Churachandpur, Thoubal and Bishnupur district, said a well placed source.

As in other parts of the country the State Govt has also geared up to celebrate the day.

Three State policemen and two Fire Service personnel will be awarded medals on the day for meritorious service.

The three police personnel who will be awarded the President Police Medal are SI Th Krishnatombi, Naik Ngamkholian Vaiphei and Constable Hibijur Rehman.

Krishnatombi will be awarded the Bar Second Medal.

The Fire Service personnel who will be honoured with the President Fire Service Medal for Meritorious Service are Sub-Officer Thongam Shamungou and Leading Fireman Haorungbam Rajendro.

The main function will be held at Kangla where Governor Ved Marwah will take the salute and unfurl the tri-colour.

Nine Govt Depts, Manipur Devt Society and Pollution Control Board have constructed gates in the capital city to celebrate the day.

Over forty contingents will take part in the march past competition.

CO of 2nd IRB PDK Singh will be the Parade Commander.

The contingent will march from 1st MR ground and receive the salute from the Governor at Kangla.

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