Phougakchao Ikhai, Torbung, Kangvai come under heavy firing

Our Correspondent
MOIRANG, Dec 16 : Meitei settlement areas came under attack once again amid the ongoing peace efforts, as armed Kuki assailants fired dozens of rounds, including bombs, at Torbung, Kangvai, and Phougakchao Ikhai today evening.
Reports indicate that the assailants fired 40 to 50 rounds of ammunition and four/five bombs from the western side of Phougakchao Ikhai starting around 8.37 pm, following which security forces rushed to the area.
There are no reports of any injuries.
One bomb landed at Phougakchao Ikhai Makha Bazar Leikai, Ward No 3, while numerous other houses in the area were left riddled with bullet holes.
Some other bombs also fell near residential areas, causing panic among local residents.
It may be mentioned that some internally displaced persons (IDPs) were resettled at Phougakchao Ikhai only yesterday.
However, with the resumption of the attack shortly after their resettlement, these individuals are now worried they may be forced to leave their homes again.
Reports suggest that some locals have already fled from the hostile areas.
A video footage which has gone viral on the social media on the other hand showed some Kuki people confronting Assam Rifles personnel and in the heated exchange of words, one personnel was heard saying that a huge quantity of drugs and ammunition were seized from the residence of one Paonilal.
The Assam Rifles man could be heard stating that the seized drugs and ammunition case would be handed over to the Court.
It is however not clear whether this incident was related to the firing at the said three places.
Speaking to the media, some residents of Phougakchao Ikhai said that the Meitei community has been actively supporting the peace initiative, even by surrendering the arms they previously used for self-defence.
The Government has been claiming that peace is gradually returning to Manipur and even hosted the Sangai Festival, they said and questioned where is the peace when miscreants can resume their attacks at any time?
They also stated that the resumption of attacks by Kuki miscreants indicate that security forces have not disarmed them, unlike what was done to the Meitei community.
Is the Government giving a free hand to the Kukis to attack Meeteis whenever they want, they asked.