The case relating to the twin IED blasts in Manipur’s Bishnupur district, has been handed over to the National Investigation Agency (NIA) for further investigation, state police informed through a statement to the media.An IED had on Monday morning exploded inside a house, which has remained unoccupied for over two years, at Nganukon Ward number 7/8 under Phougakchao Ikhai police station in Bishnupur district.Another IED explosion was reported at Saiton Nganukon Ward number 8, under Phougakchao Ikhai police station in Bishnupur district, in which two civilians sustained injuries.Senior police officers of the rank of Inspector General of Police (IGP) and Superintendent of Police, Bishnupur District, visited the blast sites to take stock of the situation.“Combing and search operations are being carried out in the adjoining areas. Security has been strengthened to prevent any further escalation of violence. Investigation and operational efforts are underway to identify and apprehend those responsible for the blasts,” the police force said.
The incident has further heightened tensions in the state, which has witnessed prolonged unrest and violence between Meitei and Kuki communities. More than 260 people have been killed and thousands displaced since the ethnic clashes began nearly two years ago.In response to the blasts, several organisations, including the Indigenous People Organisation and the All-Manipur Students’ Union, called for a 24-hour statewide shutdown. On the other hand, civil society group, Coordinating Committee on Manipur Integrity (COCOMI), has demanded an immediate, transparent and time-bound investigation into the incident.Manipur has been under President’s Rule since February 2025, following the resignation of Chief Minister N Biren Singh amid mounting criticism over his government’s handling of the ethnic violence.
