A mob forcibly broke into a police armory in the Bishnupur district and targeted specific weapons such as AK and Ghaatak series assault rifles, along with over 19,000 bullets of various calibers. The incident occurred at the battalion headquarters of the 2nd India Reserve Battalion (IRB) in Naranseina. This event has heightened concerns over security and raises questions about the underlying causes of such violence.
Two other armories located in the state capital were also targeted by Meiteis in attempted lootings, but their efforts were thwarted. In an unprecedented hearing on Thursday morning, the Manipur High Court intervened by issuing a stay order against the proposed mass burial, despite claims from the Kuki community that they had already postponed the event following discussions with the Union home ministry.
The ethnic clashes that erupted in Manipur on May 3 resulted in a devastating toll, with over 160 people losing their lives and several hundred sustaining injuries. The clashes were triggered by a 'Tribal Solidarity March' in the hill districts, held to protest against the Meitei community's demand for Scheduled Tribe (ST) status. Manipur's population comprises approximately 53% Meiteis, who primarily reside in the Imphal Valley, while the hill districts are home to Nagas and Kukis, constituting just over 40% of the population.