Items filtered by date: Saturday, 24 October 2026

Arms and Ammunition Seized at Sinai Designated Camp

Imphal, October 24: Manipur Police and CRPF seized a large cache of arms, ammunition and explosives from Sinai Designated Camp following the arrest of 17 individuals reportedly absent from the SoO cadre list. The recovery included 13 AK rifles, one SLR rifle, two Lathode guns, four Colt AR-15 rifles, four G3 rifles, thousands of ammunition rounds, magazines and explosives. According to reports, only 18 individuals were present when security forces cordoned off the camp on October 20. Of them, only one was reportedly on the SoO cadre list. The camp reportedly accommodates cadres of two Kuki armed groups.

More Weapons Recovered in Phailengkot Search Operation

Imphal, October 24: Assam Rifles continued search operations in Phailengkot under Operation Khojbeen, recovering additional weapons and suspected explosives on October 23. According to a police report, the seized items included one .22 rifle, one CMG with a magazine, one Japan-made pistol with a magazine and four suspected improvised explosive devices. Security personnel also recovered a large quantity of ammunition, magazines and other materials. The search operation remains underway as security forces continue efforts to locate illegal weapons and explosives in the area.

Biren Singh Warns SoO Violators Could Be Declared Terrorist Organisation

Imphal, October 24: Former Chief Minister Nongthombam Biren Singh said groups violating the ground rules of the Suspension of Operations (SoO) agreement could be declared terrorist organisations. Speaking during a visit to families of victims of the Khongbal Tangkhul incident, Biren said armed groups that agreed to return to normal life must strictly follow the agreement's conditions. He visited the families of Lairenlakpam Inaobi Meetei, Arubam Ronil Meetei and Kshetrimayum Sushil Meetei. Residents expressed dissatisfaction over the removal of the UNLF-MPA Battalion from Nongshum, with some claiming its presence might have prevented the incident.

MDPF Demands Abrogation of SoO Agreement

Imphal, October 24: The Manipur Democratic People's Front (MDPF) criticised the state government's alleged failure to act against violations of SoO ground rules by Kuki armed groups and demanded the agreement's early abrogation. A party delegation visited the families of the Sunulok killings to express solidarity. President Dr. Narengbam Rajiv Kumar urged authorities to restore the Pambei-led MPA base camp at Nongshum. He questioned the effectiveness of Central force deployment, pointing to the killing of civilians despite an Assam Rifles camp in the area. He also called for a lasting solution to Manipur's ongoing crisis.

Federation of Haomee Warns of Stronger Protests

Imphal, October 24: Federation of Haomee president Sapamcha Jadumani described the organisation's recent demonstration as only a trailer, warning of more intense protests if public concerns continue to be ignored. Speaking at a press conference at its Dewlahland Kabo Leikai office, he said governments and politicians could not last if they failed to respect people's wishes and aspirations. Jadumani maintained that the federation did not support bandhs or blockades but urged political leaders to listen to public grievances. He warned that stronger demonstrations would follow if the government continued to neglect people's demands.

PDYF Demands Justice for Sunulok Victims

Imphal, October 24: The People's Democratic Youth Front (PDYF) staged a sit-in protest at Naoremthong, in front of the People's Democratic Alliance headquarters, demanding justice for the victims of the Sunulok killings. General secretary Nongthombam Bidyarani condemned the deaths of Kshetrimayum Sushil, Lairenglakpam Inaobi and Arubam Ronil and criticised the government's handling of Manipur's prolonged conflict. She urged the Chief Minister and Home Minister to ensure law and order, demanded abrogation of the SoO agreement and called on Congress and BJP youth wings to raise the issue with their central leadership.

Performing Arts Organisations Protest Sunulok Killings

Imphal, October 24: Members of Film Forum Manipur, Manipur State Shumang Leela Council and All Manipur Performing Arts Community staged a sit-in protest in front of Tanthapolis Cinema Hall at Lamphel, demanding justice for the Sunulok victims. Participants condemned the killings and called for appropriate punishment for all those found responsible. The organisations also urged the government to take effective measures to prevent similar incidents in the future. The demonstration was part of continuing public protests across Manipur seeking justice for those killed in the attack at Nungsum Khongbal, Tangkhul Sunulok.

Joykisan Urges Public to Reject Autonomous Set-Up Rumours

Imphal, October 24: Thangmeiband MLA Kh. Joykisan urged the public not to believe rumours about an autonomous administrative arrangement in Manipur similar to the Bodoland Territorial Council in Assam. Speaking at Khoyathong Multipurpose Hall, he said Central leaders had instructed BJP MLAs to explore peaceful solutions through dialogue among communities and stakeholders. Joykisan said the Centre had committed to protecting Manipur's territorial integrity and warned that he would resign if that commitment was not honoured. He also appealed to local clubs, organisations and civil society groups to work towards restoring peace and harmony in the state.

Five Organisations Call for Intensified Movement

Imphal, October 24: Sanjoy Sorokhaibam, convener of a joint forum of five organisations, called for intensifying the public movement to protect Manipur's territorial integrity, with rallies and demonstrations planned from October 25. He spoke on the sidelines of a sit-in protest at New Checkon Youth Club Ground. The joint forum comprises AMUCO, AMAWOVA, Porei Leimarol Meira Paibi Apunba Manipur, COHR and MSF. Sorokhaibam accused the Centre of attempting to create disunity in Manipur and alleged that militant groups were being used to fuel tensions. He appealed to students and government employees to support the movement.

AMAWOVA Marks 37th Foundation Day

Imphal, October 24: The All Manipur Women's Voluntary Association (AMAWOVA) observed its 37th foundation day at its Sega Road, Konjeng Hajari Leikai office, calling for peace and an egalitarian society. President Wangkhem Ibemma said celebrations had been kept low-key because of the prevailing situation in Manipur. The association will instead extend assistance to families of the Sunulok victims. Recalling its establishment in 1989, Ibemma said AMAWOVA had participated in major public movements aimed at protecting the state's future. The annual musical event, Liklang Pareng, has also been skipped this year.

Hill Tribal Chiefs Guest House Inaugurated Ahead of Mera Hou Chongba

Imphal, October 24: Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand and titular king Leishemba Sanajaoba inaugurated the Hill Tribal Chiefs Guest House at the Palace Compound ahead of the Mera Hou Chongba festival on October 26. Around 200 headmen, chiefs and cultural troupe members from different hill villages arrived in Imphal for the festival. The Chief Minister expressed hope that the occasion would strengthen ties between hill and valley communities. Leishemba Sanajaoba said visiting representatives previously stayed at different accommodations. The new guest house will provide a common facility for hill representatives attending the annual celebration.

Shija Hospital Hosts First Infection Prevention Conference

Imphal, October 24: Shija Hospital organised its first Infection Prevention and Control Conference at the SJ Auditorium, Itocha Block, in connection with Infection Prevention Week 2026. Held under the theme “Generations of Infection Prevention: Past, Present and Protected,” the conference highlighted hygiene and safe healthcare practices. Director of Health Services Dr. N. Hemantakumar urged healthcare workers to promote sanitation awareness and warned against taking antibiotics without medical prescriptions. He said efforts were underway to train healthcare workers across Manipur's districts in biomedical waste management. Winners of poster and slogan competitions were also awarded.

Public Assistance Sought for Nupilal Statue in Assam

Imphal, October 24: AMKIL, Nupi Samaj, Tammi-Chingmi, Macha Leima, EECHAL and UPF have appealed for public assistance, including financial contributions, to construct a Nupilal statue at Madugram in Assam's Cachar district. Speaking at the AMKIL headquarters at Keishamthong Nambul Mapan, president Lourembam Nganbi said the appeal was made on behalf of the Nupi Lan Statue Construction Committee. She said MLA Heikham Dingo laid the foundation stone on August 21. The committee aims to complete the statue by December 12, coinciding with this year's Nupi Lan Day.

Govindas Konthoujam Stresses Agricultural Growth and Food Security

Imphal, October 24: Home Minister Govindas Konthoujam stressed the need to increase agricultural production and strengthen food sustainability in Manipur. He was speaking at a Farmers and Scientists Interaction Programme at Kwasiphai, jointly organised by state agriculture and soil conservation departments, Central Agricultural University, Imphal, and KVK Baramati, Maharashtra. The minister emphasised healthy eating and called for balanced use of chemical fertilisers. He also urged collective efforts to promote organic farming and organic products, highlighting the importance of sustainable agriculture for economic development and food security.

Man Arrested in Churachandpur Extortion Case; Arms Seized

Imphal, October 24: A joint team of Churachandpur District Police and the 58th Battalion CRPF arrested a man allegedly involved in extortion cases and seized firearms and ammunition. The arrested person was identified as 32-year-old Kamjau Vaiphei, son of B. Liantinlal Vaiphei of B. Aijalon Village, Churachandpur. Security personnel recovered one 9mm automatic pistol, one AK-47 rifle and one SLR rifle. Five live rounds of 7.62 mm ammunition and six empty cartridges were also seized. The arrest forms part of security efforts against alleged extortion and illegal arms possession in the district.

Manipur Showcases Chak-Hao Rice at International Conference

Imphal, October 24: Manipur is showcasing its GI-tagged aromatic black rice, Chak-Hao, and Chak-Hao Angouba at the Bharat International Rice Conference 2026 in New Delhi. The event, organised by the Indian Rice Exporters Federation, is being held at Bharat Mandapam, Pragati Maidan, from October 23 to 25. A delegation led by Agriculture Director Peter Salam, alongside entrepreneurs and Farmer Producer Organisations, is representing the state. Manipur's display has reportedly attracted considerable attention, highlighting the state's traditional rice heritage and the commercial potential of its distinctive agricultural products.

'Poknapham Ima' Book Released in Imphal

Imphal, October 24: Chongtham Dhirendra's book Poknapham Ima was released at a programme held at the DIPR Auditorium in Imphal. Longjam Joychandra and retired IAS officer Kangjam Radhakumar released the book at the event organised by Ashangba Communication. Media personality, newsreader and broadcaster Mangshatabam Lalgopal was also felicitated during the programme. The event brought together people associated with literature, communication and broadcasting to mark the publication. The original bulletin did not provide further details about the book's contents.

Manipur Fencers Win Multiple Medals at Khelo India Asmita League

Imphal, October 24: Manipur's junior women fencers won several medals at the Khelo India Asmita East Zone Women's Fencing League Championship held at the SAI NERC Indoor Stadium, Takyel. In foil, Thoithoi Laishom won gold and Tonbia Huiningsumbam silver. N. Piyangambi and N. Dibiya secured gold and silver respectively in epee. In sabre, Babydaina Pebam won gold and N. Priya silver. Manipur athletes also collected multiple bronze medals across the three events. The championship was organised by the Manipur Fencing Association under the aegis of the Fencing Association of India. The closing ceremony is scheduled for October 25.