Imphal : Fresh violence erupted in Manipur’s Bishnupur district on Monday after two explosive devices detonated in quick succession, injuring two civilians and triggering angry confrontations between local residents and security forces.

The blasts occurred in Ngaukon area under Saiton Gram Panchayat, which falls within the jurisdiction of Phougakchao Ikhai Police Station, close to the Bishnupur-Churachandpur district border. The area has remained sensitive since the outbreak of ethnic violence in the state in May 2023.

According to police sources, the first explosion took place early in the morning at an abandoned residential house belonging to Salam Mani Singh (70). The house has been lying vacant since May 2023, after the owner shifted to a relief camp following the escalation of ethnic unrest in Manipur.

A second blast occurred around 8.46 am, approximately 200 metres away from the first site. Two people were injured in the second explosion. They have been identified as Soibam Sanatomba Singh (52) of Saiton Makha Leikai and Nongthombam Indubala Devi (37) of Saiton Heiyaikon Maning Leikai.

Both victims were immediately rushed to Bishnupur District Hospital, where they are currently undergoing treatment. Hospital authorities said their condition is stable.

Following the explosions, irate locals gathered at the site and engaged in heated exchanges with security personnel, alleging serious lapses despite the presence of a sizeable security deployment in nearby areas. Residents questioned how explosive devices could be planted and detonated in a zone under regular surveillance.

The situation escalated further when locals dismantled a makeshift security bunker located near the blast site, accusing forces of failing to prevent the incident. Tension gripped the area as security personnel attempted to control the crowd and restore order.

Police teams promptly reached both blast locations, cordoned off the area, and launched a detailed investigation. Additional security forces have been deployed, and preventive measures have been intensified to prevent any further incidents. Authorities said the situation remained tense but under control at the time of filing this report.

The explosions come just three days after security forces neutralised 27 locally made bombs near Mongham village in Imphal East district on January 2. Those explosives were detected during intensified search and area domination operations in fringe and vulnerable areas. Bomb disposal squads later defused the devices at a safe location, averting what officials described as a potential major threat to civilian lives and property.

The latest incident has renewed concerns over the persistence of explosives and militant activity in conflict-affected areas of Manipur, even as security forces continue large-scale operations. Authorities said investigations are ongoing to determine who planted the devices and whether the blasts are linked to recent recoveries of explosives elsewhere in the state.

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