IED Explosions in Bishnupur Spark Shutdown in Manipur

IMPHAL- Two civilians were injured on Monday morning after multiple improvised explosive devices (IEDs) went off near an abandoned house in Bishnupur district of Manipur, leading to fresh tensions in a state already on edge from prolonged ethnic unrest.

The blasts occurred in the Saiton/Ngaukon area under Moirang police station, close to the foothill zone that has been sensitive through the recent phase of violence. ​

According to initial reports, the first explosions took place between around 5:40 a.m. and 6:00 a.m. near a house whose occupants have been staying in a relief camp since the outbreak of ethnic clashes in 2023, leaving the structure vacant.

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Local residents and media accounts suggest that at least two to three IEDs were detonated in quick succession, followed by another blast later in the morning as security forces and residents converged on the site.

Two civilians sustained injuries in the incident and were shifted to hospital; their condition was reported as stable, though full details were still being compiled at the time of reporting.​

The explosions sparked immediate outrage among villagers, who accused the authorities of failing to secure the area despite repeated episodes of violence and tension in the foothill belt. Some locals reportedly damaged a temporary security bunker or post near the site, alleging negligence and demanding an explanation for how explosive devices could be planted so close to habitations without detection.

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Police and central forces rushed to the spot, cordoned off the area and launched a search operation for additional explosives or suspects behind the attack.​

In the aftermath, several civil society and student organisations, including the Indigenous People Organisation Manipur (IPOM) and the All Manipur Students’ Union (AMSU), announced a 24‑hour total shutdown across Manipur starting from midnight.

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In their statements, they condemned the blasts as an act of terror against civilians and accused the government of failing to restore safety and normalcy despite repeated assurances and high‑level security reviews. The groups have demanded a thorough investigation, accountability for lapses, and stronger protective measures for vulnerable localities in the foothills and mixed‑population areas.​

The Bishnupur incident comes just days after security forces reported neutralising 27 country‑made bombs in Imphal East and seizing weapons and explosives from various locations as part of intensified operations.

It also follows visits and security reviews by senior central leaders, including the Union Home Minister, intended to stabilise a state rocked by violence and displacement since 2023.

Monday’s blasts underline the continued volatility in parts of Manipur and the challenge of preventing sporadic attacks even as authorities claim progress in resettling internally displaced persons and recovering arms. ​

Police have so far not publicly named any group or individual suspects in connection with the Bishnupur blasts, stating that investigation is at a preliminary stage and evidence is being gathered from the impact site and surrounding villages.

Officials have appealed for calm, urging citizens to cooperate with law-enforcement agencies and avoid actions that could escalate tensions amid the shutdown call. However, for residents of Saiton and neighbouring areas, the early-morning explosions and the sight of a familiar house turned into a blast scene have revived fears that everyday life in Manipur remains far from secure.  ​