Imphal: The Manipur government on Tuesday suspended mobile internet services in five districts following a suspected rocket attack that killed two children. This has triggered fresh unrest in the violence-hit state, officials said.
According to reports, the incident occurred at Tronglaobi Awang Leikai village in Moirang, where a projectile believed to be a rocket struck a residential house. The blast killed a five-year-old boy and his infant sister, while their mother sustained serious injuries.
Authorities said the attack reignited tensions in the valley districts, prompting protests by angry residents. Demon
strators reportedly blocked roads, burned tyres and set some vehicles on fire, while security forces were deployed to bring the situation under control.
To prevent the spread of rumours and mobilisation through social media, the state government ordered the suspension of mobile internet and data services for three days in Imphal East, Imphal West, Thoubal, and Kakching.
A curfew was also imposed in parts of the affected district as a precautionary measure, while additional security personnel were deployed in sensitive areas.
Tronglaobi village lies close to the elevated hill areas of the Churachandpur district, according to a NDTV report. The locality has long been considered vulnerable because of its proximity to hill positions. These areas are occupied by armed Kuki groups, according to reports.
Chief Minister N Biren Singh condemned the attack, describing it as an inhuman act and assuring strict action against those responsible. Investigations have been launched to identify the perpetrators.