Protests erupt after siblings’ killing; Central Reserve Police Force opens fire as tensions rise in Manipur
April 7, 2026: Fresh violence rocked Manipur on Tuesday as two protesters were killed after security forces allegedly opened fire on a mob protesting the killing of two young siblings. The crowd, angered by the incident, reportedly stormed a camp of the Central Reserve Police Force, vandalised property, and set vehicles ablaze. State Home Minister Govindas Konthoujam said at least 31 people were injured as forces moved to control the situation.
The unrest was triggered by the killing of a five-year-old boy and his six-month-old sister in Bishnupur’s Tronglaobi area. While outrage spread rapidly, the Indigenous Tribal Leaders’ Forum denied allegations linking the Kuki-Zo community to the attack. Chief Minister N. Biren Singh condemned the killings and assured swift justice, adding that the case would be handed over to the National Investigation Agency.
As tensions escalated, authorities suspended internet services across several districts, including Imphal East, Imphal West, Thoubal, Kakching, and Bishnupur. The violence comes amid a prolonged ethnic conflict between Meitei and Kuki communities that has already claimed over 260 lives and displaced thousands since 2023, underscoring the fragile security situation in the state.