Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh has strongly condemned the brutal killing of two migrant labourers from Bihar in Kakching district, announcing an ex-gratia of Rs 10 lakh for their families.
In a post on X, Singh expressed his outrage over the killings of Sunalal Kumar (18) and Dasharat Kumar (17), both from Bihar’s Gopalganj district, who were shot dead at point-blank range in the evening of 14 December near the panchayat office in Keirak on Kakching-Wabagai Road.
The workers were employed in construction and had been residing in rented accommodation in the area.
"I strongly condemn the brutal killing of young brothers, Sunalal Kumar and Dasharat Kumar, from Bihar in Kakching district, Manipur. This act of terrorism is a direct assault on our values, and my deepest condolences go out to their grieving families," Singh said.
The Chief Minister also raised concerns over the possibility that the killings could be part of a larger conspiracy aimed at destabilising the state.
"In this crucial juncture, we cannot ignore the possibility that this horrific crime is part of a larger conspiracy to destabilise our state and push it further towards chaos. We must stand together against these destructive forces and ensure that they do not succeed in creating fear and insecurity," Singh added.
The Manipur CM assured that every effort was underway to identify and apprehend the perpetrators, announcing that an ex-gratia of Rs 10 lakh would be provided to each bereaved family.
"If required, the case will be transferred to the National Investigation Agency (NIA) to ensure a fair and thorough inquiry," Singh said.
Police have yet to identify the assailants. The tragic incident has shocked the local community and drawn widespread condemnation.