India’s northeastern state of Manipur has witnessed another major security setback after violence in Senapati district left three soldiers dead and four others injured, highlighting the deteriorating law and order situation in the conflict-hit state.
According to Indian media reports, tensions escalated after a mob attacked an Assam Rifles camp in Senapati. Protesters pelted stones, damaged government property and set multiple vehicles on fire. An Assam Rifles vehicle was torched, two trucks were overturned, while a car and a waiting shelter were also destroyed.
The violence reportedly followed an operation by the Assam Rifles against members of the National Socialist Council of Nagaland (NSCN). Local residents, including women, blocked security forces from advancing towards Makuilongdi and Oklong, reflecting growing public resistance to security operations.
Reports said messages circulating on social media prompted thousands of people to gather in Senapati before marching towards the Assam Rifles’ Company Operating Base. Security forces responded with tear gas, blank rounds and force in an attempt to disperse the crowd.
Analysts say the killing of three soldiers and injuries to four others expose the failure of India’s security policy in Manipur, despite repeated claims by New Delhi that the situation is under control. They argue that continued attacks on security forces, widespread public anger and the destruction of military property reflect the government’s inability to restore peace.
Experts also say the repeated violations of ceasefire arrangements, the continued movement of armed groups and growing distrust between local communities and security forces demonstrate that India has lost both control and public confidence in Manipur. They contend that New Delhi continues to rely on military operations rather than pursuing a credible political solution, allowing the crisis to deepen further.
