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In a tragic development on the outskirts of Manipur’s Imphal city, two brave Assam Rifles personnel lost their lives when their truck came under a violent ambush by unknown gunmen. Five other soldiers were injured in the attack and have been rushed to the Regional Institute of Medical Sciences (RIMS) in Imphal for treatment.
Details of the Attack
The attack occurred around 5:50 pm on Friday as the Assam Rifles truck was traveling from Patsoi company base to Nambol base along National Highway 2. The location of the ambush is in the Nambol Sabal Leikai area of Bishnupur district, roughly 8 kilometers from Imphal airport on the road to Churachandpur. The militants opened fire while it was already getting dark, catching the convoy off guard.
Immediate Aftermath and Response
Two soldiers, identified as Naib Subedar Shyam Gurung and Rifleman Ranjit Singh Kashyap, were killed in the firefight. The injured personnel are in stable condition and currently receiving medical care at RIMS. Security forces launched an extensive search operation to track down and apprehend the attackers, who fled the scene in a white vehicle.
The Assam Rifles paid their respects to the fallen soldiers, expressing deep condolences to their families and affirming their sacrifice in the line of duty.
Security Situation and Context
This assault highlights the ongoing security challenges faced by paramilitary forces in Manipur. Notably, the ambush took place in an area where the Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA) is not enforced, limiting the ability of forces to conduct counterinsurgency operations freely.
The attack comes just days before a proposed bandh called by rebel groups opposed to the historic merger agreement of Manipur with India in 1949. In recent months, security agencies have been active in countering militant activities, yet such attacks underscore the volatility in the region.
Official Condemnations and Solidarity
Manipur Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla condemned the attack strongly, emphasizing that such violence will not be tolerated. Former Chief Minister N Biren Singh visited the injured soldiers and expressed profound sorrow over the loss, stating that those responsible must face strict punishment.
Broader Security Implications
This ambush marks one of the major attacks on security forces in Manipur since last year. It serves as a grim reminder of the dangers operating personnel face daily in the northeast’s fraught security landscape.
Continued vigilance, coordinated counterinsurgency efforts, and political dialogue remain critical to restoring peace and stability in the area.
This incident underlines the sacrifices made by India’s paramilitary forces in keeping the country safe, even in the most challenging terrain and political conditions. The nation mourns the loss of these brave soldiers and stands united in support of all security personnel working tirelessly on the frontline.
