Multiple Explosions Rock Manipur’s Bishnupur, Two Hurt

Two people were injured in a series of explosions that rocked Bishnupur district in Manipur early Monday, police said, amid continuing tensions in the violence-hit state.

The first explosion occurred around 5.40 am at an abandoned house in the Phougakchao police station area. According to reports, the blast is suspected to have been triggered by an improvised explosive device (IED). The house has remained unoccupied since ethnic violence forced its owner and family to take shelter in a relief camp.

Within minutes, another explosion was reported between 5.40 am and 5.55 am in the same locality, reports stated. Security agencies believe the blasts may be linked, though the exact cause is yet to be established.

The area has been deserted since ethnic clashes erupted between the Meitei and Kuki-Zo-Hmar communities in May 2023. The prolonged conflict has claimed at least 260 lives and displaced more than 59,000 people, with intermittent flare-ups reported throughout 2024 and 2025.

A third blast occurred at around 8.45 am, approximately 200 metres from the initial site, when residents had gathered near the area following the earlier explosions. Police said the timing of the blast raised concerns about possible intent to target civilians.

Two local residents identified as Sanatomba Singh and Indubala Devi sustained injuries in the explosions. They were rushed to a nearby hospital, where doctors said their condition is stable and they are out of danger.

Tensions escalated after security forces arrived at the site, with residents reportedly scuffling with personnel during crowd control efforts, police said.

An investigation has been launched to determine the nature of the explosives used and those responsible for the incident. Security has been tightened in and around the district as a precautionary measure.

Manipur has been under President’s Rule since February 2025, following the resignation of then chief minister N Biren Singh. While the Kuki communities form a majority in the hill districts, the Meitei community predominantly inhabits the valley areas, including Bishnupur.

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