Fresh tension erupted in Manipur’s Senapati district after a mob attacked an Assam Rifles camp following a security operation against suspected militants. Several military vehicles were damaged during the violence. Security forces later brought the situation under control without using live ammunition.
The Manipur Assam Rifles camp attack has once again exposed the fragile security situation in the northeastern state.
Search Operation Based on Intelligence
The Assam Rifles launched a search operation after receiving intelligence about the movement of suspected NSCN (IM) cadres. Officials said the armed men were reportedly seen outside their designated ceasefire camp near Oklong village.
According to security agencies, the cadres were carrying weapons and wearing uniforms. If confirmed, this would violate the ceasefire agreement signed with the Government of India.
Before starting the operation, the Ceasefire Monitoring Group was informed. Security teams then moved towards Makuilongdi and nearby areas to verify the intelligence behind the Manipur Assam Rifles camp attack.
Villagers Stop Security Teams
As the troops approached the area, local residents blocked their movement. Many women were also part of the gathering.
Instead of forcing their way through, Assam Rifles officers spoke with village leaders. They explained that the operation was only meant to verify intelligence inputs. Officials also assured residents that troops would not enter villages without following proper procedures.
After the discussions, the security teams withdrew to avoid any confrontation.
Social Media Rumours Fuel Violence
Although the search ended peacefully, the situation changed later in the evening.
Officials said misleading messages spread on social media. The posts claimed that security forces had surrounded or entered the NSCN (IM) camp. The messages also urged people to gather in Senapati town.
Soon, a large crowd marched towards the Assam Rifles Company Operating Base. Authorities believe these rumours triggered the Manipur Assam Rifles camp attack.
Mob Damages Military Property
The crowd reached the camp at around 9:30 pm. According to officials, people began throwing stones at the camp and military vehicles.
One light vehicle was set on fire. Two military trucks were overturned and damaged. A civilian vehicle parked nearby was also vandalised.
Additional security personnel were rushed to the area as the attack continued.
Forces Avoid Live Firing
Officials said Assam Rifles personnel showed restraint during the attack.
Instead of opening fire, troops used tear gas and fired blank rounds to disperse the crowd. Reinforcements from the Manipur Police and the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) soon joined the operation.
The combined teams restored order within a short time. No casualties were reported.
Ceasefire Rules Under Scanner
The incident has once again raised questions about the ceasefire agreement with the NSCN (IM).
Under the agreement, armed cadres are expected to remain inside designated camps. They are not allowed to move freely with weapons without permission.
Officials said the search operation was launched only after receiving credible intelligence about possible violations of these rules. Authorities are now examining the matter.
Security Remains Tight
Security has been increased across Senapati district after the incident. Officials are monitoring the situation closely.
Authorities have also appealed to people not to believe or share unverified social media posts. They warned that rumours can quickly turn a tense situation into violence.
An investigation is now underway to identify those involved in the attack and the damage to government property. The Manipur Assam Rifles camp attack highlights the security challenges that continue to affect the region. Officials say restoring public confidence and maintaining peace remain the top priorities after the Manipur Assam Rifles camp attack.
