By Trend News Line 2024-04-13 08:26:49.
Chargesheet filed against two accused in Manipur car blast case
The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has recently filed a chargesheet against two accused individuals, including the main conspirator, in the June 2023 Kwatka vehicle-borne bomb blast case in Manipur. The blast resulted in three individuals sustaining injuries and caused significant damage to both public and private properties in the area.
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Details of the blast and arrests
The incident took place on a culvert/bridge near Phougakchao Ikhai Awang Leikai and Kwakta, along Tiddim Road (NH-02), in Kwakta Ward No. 07 Bishnupur, Manipur. The explosion, which occurred at around 7:10 on June 21, 2023, was caused by a bomb-fitted Mahindra Scorpio SUV, resulting in damage to the bridge, electric pole, electrical assets, and nearby houses.
During the course of the investigation, the agency arrested Mohammad Noor Hussain alias Tomba on October 16. It was revealed that Hussain had driven the IED-borne Mahindra Scorpio SUV and parked it on the targeted bridge at Kwakta, while his co-passenger activated the detonation mechanism of the IED. Subsequently, Seiminlun Gangte alias Minlun, identified as the main conspirator, was arrested on November 2.
Conspiracy and further investigations
According to NIA investigations, Gangte had conspired with accomplices to detonate the bridge with the aim of instilling fear and disrupting the movement of security forces, civilians, and the supply of essential goods. Gangte recruited associates to conduct reconnaissance of the target area and execute the explosion, as per a statement by an NIA spokesperson.
The agency has stated that further investigations are ongoing to locate other absconding individuals involved in the case. The chargesheet filed on Friday includes various sections of the Indian Penal Code, the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), the Explosive Substances Act, and the Prevention of Damage to Public Property Act.
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Background on ethnic clashes in Manipur
Manipur has experienced significant ethnic clashes between the Meiteis, predominant in the Imphal Valley, and the tribal Kuki-Zo community, which holds a majority in certain hill districts, since May of the previous year. The violence has resulted in the loss of at least 219 lives and displacement of approximately 50,000 individuals.
The initial clashes erupted on May 3 in Churachandpur town following protests by tribal Kuki groups against proposed changes to the state’s reservation system, granting scheduled tribe (ST) status to the Meitei community. The unrest quickly spread throughout the state, prompting curfews, internet suspensions, and increased security measures.
Efforts for peace and upcoming visit
Despite the tumultuous events, the state has witnessed a period of relative calm in recent weeks, with no reported incidents of violence in the past 47 days. Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh has expressed optimism regarding ongoing efforts to find a peaceful resolution to the ethnic tensions.
In a related development, Union Home Minister Amit Shah is scheduled to visit Imphal on April 15 and address a rally ahead of the upcoming general elections. This visit marks Shah’s second trip to the state in preparation for the polls, which are set to take place in two phases on April 19 and April 26..
manipur car blast nia files charge sheet against including main conspirator latest news india.
