Laishram Prem : “Manipur Phase 2 Polling Violence”

Accident – Death – Obituary News : : 1. Manipur election violence
2. Phase 2 polling Manipur violence

Two CRPF personnel were killed in an alleged attack by Kiku militants in Manipur’s Bishnupur district, involving gunmen and bombs. In a separate incident, a gunfight resulted in the death of a 33-year-old man. Security forces launched search operations to apprehend the attackers amidst the ongoing Lok Sabha elections in Manipur. Manipur’s Chief Electoral Officer reported a higher voter turnout and less violence in the Outer Manipur constituency. However, incidents of EVM malfunctioning and destruction were reported in some polling stations. Despite minor disruptions, the elections were expected to conclude peacefully with a participation rate of 78.78% in the Outer Manipur constituency.

Tragic Attack on CRPF Personnel in Bishnupur, Manipur

In a devastating turn of events, two Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel lost their lives in an alleged attack by Kiku militants in Manipur’s Bishnupur district. The assailants, armed with guns and explosives, engaged in a fierce confrontation that lasted for over two hours, leaving a trail of destruction in their wake. The fallen soldiers were brave members of the CRPF’s 128th Battalion, stationed in that volatile region.

Unrest Continues in Manipur

Adding to the turmoil, another violent incident unfolded in the Kangpokpi and Imphal East districts, where a deadly gunfight erupted between two unidentified groups. Tragically, a 33-year-old village volunteer named Laishram Prem lost his life amidst the crossfire, sparking fear and tension in the affected communities. Security forces swiftly mobilized to restore order and prevent further bloodshed in the strife-torn areas.

Challenges Amidst Lok Sabha Elections

These harrowing incidents cast a shadow over the ongoing second phase of Lok Sabha elections in Manipur, underscoring the fragile security situation in the region. Manipur’s Chief Electoral Officer, Pradeep Kumar Jha, provided updates on the electoral process, noting a higher voter turnout in the Outer Manipur constituency compared to previous elections.

Despite the overall peaceful voting environment, sporadic incidents marred the polling process, leading to re-polling in 11 stations of the Inner Manipur constituency. Jha commended the resilience of the electorate and assured that necessary measures were in place to safeguard the democratic exercise from further disruptions.

Escalating Tensions and Electoral Malpractice

However, reports of electoral malpractice surfaced in Ukhrul, where enraged voters resorted to destroying an Electronic Voting Machine (EVM) following threats from unidentified individuals. The incident, captured in a video shared by Congress leader Jairam Ramesh, highlighted the challenges faced by voters in exercising their franchise freely and fairly.

Jha reiterated his commitment to upholding the integrity of the electoral process and urged all stakeholders to cooperate in ensuring a smooth conclusion to the Manipur Lok Sabha polls. Despite isolated incidents of violence and coercion, the Election Commission’s voter turnout app indicated a robust participation rate in the Outer Manipur constituency, reflecting the determination of the electorate to have their voices heard.

As the electoral saga unfolds in Manipur, the resilience of its people in the face of adversity shines through, underscoring the importance of safeguarding democratic values and principles in the region.