Students of Blossom Hebron English School in Kangpokpi district allegedly came under fire while returning home after their board examinations, raising serious concerns about security in the hill district.
The incident reportedly occurred around 11:40 am on March 24 along the Tingpibung–Leplen road, when Class X students were travelling from Saikul to Simol village under Bungpi block. The students had completed their exams in Saikul and were returning under the supervision of their warden.
According to the students, suspected militants opened fire from the opposite side of Sinakeithel village along the Leplen–Tingpibung stretch. Fortunately, no injuries were reported.
The incident took place just hours after fresh violence erupted in Mongkot Chepu village in Manipur, further heightening concerns over the deteriorating security situation.
Earlier in the morning, heavily armed militants reportedly launched a coordinated attack around 7:30 am from the Litan–Sareikhong side, using mortars and automatic rifles. A villager was injured after being hit by splinters from a mortar shell, triggering panic among residents.
Gunfire and explosions were also heard near schools, forcing students to take shelter inside classrooms. Eyewitnesses reported that gunshots were heard near the Litan Police Station, raising questions about security preparedness.
Residents alleged that the firing was directed towards Kuki-inhabited areas, forcing people to remain indoors amid fears of further escalation. The back-to-back incidents have intensified anxiety among locals and prompted renewed calls for stronger security measures, especially to ensure the safety of schoolchildren.
