Gunfire erupted near a polling station in Manipur today, as captured in a 25-second video circulating online. The footage depicts chaos and people shouting before two rapid shots are heard. A third shot follows, possibly in response to the initial gunfire. Subsequently, a series of gunshots, potentially from an automatic weapon, is heard, prompting the person filming to take cover behind a doorway. The exchange of gunfire continues for about 10 seconds before ceasing.
The location of the incident, whether in Inner Manipur or Outer Manipur constituency, remains unclear. In the 2019 election, the BJP’s Thounaojam Basanta Kumar Singh clinched victory in the Inner seat, while the Outer seat, reserved for Scheduled Tribe candidates, was won by Naga People’s Front leader Kachui Timothy Zimik, who is contesting again with the backing of the BJP’s ally, the NPF.
Manipur has grappled with sporadic violence since May last year, stemming from clashes between ethnic communities that resulted in numerous casualties and displacements. Consequently, stringent security measures have been implemented for the initial phase of the two-part elections in the state. Fifteen of Outer Manipur’s 28 Assembly segments are scheduled to vote on April 26.
To accommodate displaced voters, special polling stations have been established, with 22 in Churachandpur district and 24 in Kangpokpi, according to officials.
Expressing confidence in the electoral outcome, Chief Minister N Biren Singh remarked, “I am fully confident both Manipur seats will definitely elect a BJP government at the centre. Yes, Manipur is facing a troubled time but, in the last four-five months peace was restored and that is why we are holding an election.”