Kuki militants target house for second time
Source: Chronicle News Service

Jiribam, July 01 2024: Despite claims of heavy deployment of security forces, arson activities of Kuki militants on Meetei houses in Jiribam continue.

In the latest incident, a house belonging to one Heisnam Premchand in Jakuradhor Part 2 under Borobekra sub-division was set on fire late Sunday night by Kuki militants in their second attempt on the same house.

The militants had earlier attacked the said house on June 27, but timely intervention by security forces prevented extensive damage to the property.

However, in the latest act of arson, the kitchen portion of the house was burned though security forces intervened and prevented further damage.

The house is located around 5 km from Borobekra police station.

The latest attack underscores continued tension and violence in the region, where Kuki militants have repeatedly targeted Meetei households consequently raising serious concerns among the local community regarding effectiveness of the security measures put in place.

Residents of Jiribam have expressed their frustration over the recurring arson attacks and urged the authorities to take effective measures to ensure the safety and security of Meetei community in the border district.

The community also sought immediate and effective resolution to the ongoing violence, while emphasising the need for peace and stability in the district.

The continued attacks entail robust strategies to prevent such incidents and ensure the safety of the residents of Jiribam, they opined.

In recent weeks, there have been persistent arson activities targeting Meetei houses in various villages in Jiribam by Kuki militants, seemingly a part of their broader pattern of violence in the district.

Approximately hundred Meetei houses were torched across four to five villages recently with Lamtai Khunou being the worst affected.

In addition, Kuki militants also burned, down some police outposts and a forest office.

Over 1000 Meetei residents have been displaced and taking refuge in different relief camps.

Violence in Jiribam broke out on June 6 after a Meetei farmer was brutally murdered by Kuki militants and his mutilated body found later the same evening.

The incident shattered the hard-earned peace maintained in the district after violence broke out in the state on May 3 last year.

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