Imphal | Manipur Home Minister Konthoujam Govindas on Wednesday said the state government will adopt a new security strategy following the recent ambush on personnel of the 40th Battalion of the Assam Rifles that left two security personnel dead.

Speaking to reporters on the sidelines of the inauguration of the 1st Bishnupur District Olympic Games 2026 at the DSA Ground in Bishnupur, the Minister described the attack as a tragic incident and said security agencies were working to identify and apprehend those responsible.

“The attack on security personnel is extremely unfortunate. They were deployed to protect the people and maintain peace, but were ambushed and killed. Efforts are underway to trace the culprits and bring them to justice,” Govindas said.

He said no organisation has claimed responsibility for the attack so far, while reports indicate that the NSCN has denied any involvement. Investigations are continuing, he added.

In the aftermath of the ambush, the Home Minister chaired a meeting with senior security officials, including the Director General of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), to review the situation and formulate a stronger operational response.

According to Govindas, the meeting decided to implement a new security strategy aimed at enhancing counter-insurgency operations and improving coordination among security forces deployed in the state.

“We are confident that the new approach will yield results, though it may take some time before its impact becomes visible,” he said.

The Minister also confirmed that personnel of the CoBRA (Commando Battalion for Resolute Action), the CRPF’s specialised anti-insurgency unit, have begun deployment in parts of Manipur. However, he noted that adequate accommodation and logistical infrastructure must be established before full-scale operations can commence.

“These arrangements may take two to three months. Once completed, operations can be carried out more effectively,” he said.

Reiterating that restoration of peace and normalcy remains the government’s foremost priority, Govindas said security measures would be complemented by initiatives aimed at promoting social harmony.

Referring to the inaugural Inter-District Olympic Games, he said the Department of Youth Affairs and Sports plans to organise more sporting events across the state to encourage interaction among communities.

“Sports have the power to unite people. Through such initiatives, we hope to strengthen social bonds and contribute to lasting peace in Manipur,” the Minister added.