Assam Rifles Allegedly Kill Two Tribal Hunters at Manipur Border

Lamka, May 3, 2014: Tension has gripped the border area of Hiangtam Khonou, a southern village in Manipur along the Indo-Myanmar border, after two tribal villagers were allegedly shot dead by personnel of the Assam Rifles on Friday (May 2).

The victims, reportedly innocent hunters, had ventured into the forest near the border under Singngat sub-division in Churachandpur district. One of the deceased was a resident of Hiangtam Khonou, while the other hailed from Singngat village. Both were said to be in their early 30s to mid-30s, and one of them was a father of three children, who depended on hunting for his livelihood.

According to sources close to the incident, the bodies have not yet been returned by the Assam Rifles, and no official report has been registered by the Churachandpur Police as of last night. The situation has sparked anger and concern among locals, especially over the lack of communication from the authorities.

Villagers speaking on condition of anonymity described the victims as harmless and accused the Assam Rifles—often referred to as the “Friends of the Hill People”—of excessive use of force.

The incident is yet to be officially acknowledged, and further details are awaited.

BRUCE K. THANGKHAL

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