Security – Imphal Residents Renew Demands for Justice After Child Deaths
Security – Residents in several parts of Manipur continued to express anger and grief over the fatal Tronglaobi bomb attack, as fresh protests were held in Imphal demanding strict action against those responsible for the deaths of two young children.
Demonstrations Held in Sagolband
People gathered at Sagolband in Imphal to condemn the April 7 attack that took place in Tronglaobi Awang Leikai, located in Moirang. Protesters voiced concern over the worsening security situation and called for justice for the victims’ family.
The incident claimed the lives of a five-year-old boy and his six-month-old sister after unidentified suspected militants allegedly hurled an explosive device at their residence during the night. Their mother also suffered injuries in the blast. Residents participating in the demonstration described the attack as deeply disturbing and urged authorities to ensure those behind the violence are brought to justice.
Family Receives Bodies After Weeks of Mourning
Nearly twenty-five days after the explosion, the children’s bodies were finally collected by family members from the mortuary of the Regional Institute of Medical Sciences (RIMS) in Imphal on May 2.
The prolonged stay of the bodies at the hospital had drawn widespread sympathy across the state, with many local residents expressing solidarity with the grieving family. On the day the bodies were handed over, relatives, neighbours, and villagers gathered in large numbers to pay their respects before the funeral rites were conducted.
A funeral procession moved through the area as mourners joined together in silence and sorrow. The final rites took place at Lamthaboong in Phougakchao Ikhai under Bishnupur district, where emotional scenes marked the farewell ceremony for the two children.
Investigation Transferred to NIA
Authorities have transferred the bomb blast case to the National Investigation Agency for a detailed investigation. The move is expected to bring greater scrutiny to the attack and help identify those involved in planning and carrying out the incident.
Officials have not yet released complete findings from the probe, but the transfer of the case to the central agency reflects the seriousness of the violence and the growing public concern surrounding militant-related incidents in the state.
Earlier Protests Intensified Public Pressure
Public outrage had already surfaced in April when demonstrations were organised in Keishamthong and other areas of Manipur following the attack. Protesters demanded immediate action against those responsible for the deaths of the children and criticised the handling of the security situation.
During those demonstrations, participants carried placards and raised slogans directed at the state government. Some protesters alleged the involvement of armed militant groups in the attack and called for stronger measures to protect civilians living in vulnerable areas.
According to reports, the bomb was allegedly thrown at the family’s residence around 1 am while the victims were asleep. The blast instantly killed the two children and left their mother injured, triggering widespread condemnation across the region.
Growing Concern Over Civilian Safety
The incident has once again highlighted concerns about civilian safety in conflict-affected regions of Manipur. Community leaders and residents have appealed for peace and stronger security measures to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
As investigations continue, residents across the state remain focused on seeking accountability and ensuring justice for the victims’ family. The tragedy has left a lasting emotional impact on local communities, with many describing the deaths of the children as one of the most heartbreaking incidents reported in recent months.