Manipur: Panic in Saiton Leitanpokpi; villagers flee amid continued militant attacks

Panic has gripped the residents of Saiton Leitanpokpi in Bishnupur district, as a series of attacks launched from the surrounding hills have forced villagers to evacuate to safer locations. For the past three days, residents of this rural area have been subjected to relentless gunfire and bomb attacks reportedly launched from elevated terrains.

According to local sources, the residents are deeply shaken as sophisticated weapons are reportedly being used in the attacks. Villagers describe the situation as terrifying, noting that the gunfire and explosives easily reach the area due to its vulnerable position near the hills. Most houses in Saiton Leitanpokpi are kutcha structures, making them particularly susceptible to damage and leaving residents with no choice but to flee.

One resident said, “We are living in constant fear. Our community is entirely unprotected from these attacks, which continue day and night. Our homes can’t withstand the weapons being used, and we are compelled to leave everything behind to find safety.”

The situation in Saiton Leitanpokpi’s Ward No. 4 has been especially severe, with nearly 60 households from Meitei and Meitei-Pangal communities abandoning their homes to escape the violence. Residents have urged authorities to take immediate action to secure the area and restore safety. The villagers said that without urgent intervention, they will be unable to return home, as the attacks show no signs of abating.

A woman lost her life just two days ago while working in a paddy field when gunfire erupted from the hillside.