Manipur: The probe into two explosions that occurred in Manipur’s Bishnupur district earlier this week has been transferred to the National Investigation Agency (NIA), state authorities confirmed on Tuesday.
The blasts took place on Monday morning in Ngaukon village under the Phougakchao police station area, leaving two people injured. Officials said the first explosion occurred at around 5.45 am inside an abandoned house and is suspected to have involved an improvised explosive device.
A second blast was reported nearly three hours later, around 8.45 am, at a location roughly 200 metres away. This explosion went off after local residents gathered in the area following news of the initial incident.
In an official statement, Manipur Police said the case has been handed over to the NIA for a detailed and comprehensive investigation. Security forces have also intensified combing and search operations in nearby areas to prevent further incidents.
“Security arrangements have been strengthened, and efforts are underway to identify and arrest those responsible,” the police statement said, adding that operational measures are continuing to maintain law and order.
The first explosion occurred in a house that has remained unoccupied since ethnic violence erupted in the state in May 2023. The owner and his family are currently staying in a relief camp, officials noted.
The incident has heightened tensions in Manipur, which has already witnessed prolonged unrest. More than 260 people have been killed and thousands displaced since clashes broke out between Meitei and Kuki communities nearly two years ago.
In response to the blasts, several organisations, including the Indigenous People Organisation and the All Manipur Students’ Union, announced a 24-hour statewide shutdown beginning at midnight on Wednesday. Meitei civil group Coordinating Committee on Manipur Integrity (COCOMI) also called for a swift, transparent and time-bound inquiry.
Manipur has been under President’s Rule since February 2025, following the resignation of Chief Minister N Biren Singh amid criticism over the handling of the ethnic conflict.
