Twin blasts amid strike in Manipur

Posted on January 27, 2017 0 Comments1,112

Imphal, Jan. 26: Two bomb blasts marked Republic Day celebrations in Manipur where militants had called a general strike to
boycott the programme. The blasts, however, did not disturb state-level celebrations in Imphal.

Police said two improvised explosive devices (IEDs), planted by militants, exploded simultaneously around 8.30am in Imphal East district. No one was injured in the explosions.

Police said militants exploded one bomb at Pihsum, near Manipur College, using a remote-controlled device. The blast damaged some
portions of the wall of the college. Shortly after the blast, another blast took place at Mantripukhri on the outskirts of Imphal city. 

The site of the second blast is near 69 CRPF Battalion complex. No one was injured.

The Coordination Committee (CorCom), a militant group, called the general strike throughout Manipur from 9pm yesterday till 6pm today.

Barring the two blasts, the day remained peaceful throughout the state. Markets remained closed and most people stayed indoors.

Republic Day celebrations were held amid tight security in view of the militant strike. In spite of the boycott calls, people in large
number came out to participate in the celebrations.

The main programme was held inside Kangla Fort here with governor Najma Heptulla unfurling the Tricolour and taking the salute from  colourful march-past contingents.

Altogether 65 contingents of cultural troupes, security forces, National Cadet Corps (NCC), students, government departments and NGOs participated in the Republic Day parade.

Addressing the vote of thanks ceremony at the parade ground of the 1st Manipur Rifles, chief minister Okram Ibobi Singh said India is moving ahead as a strong nation with development in all spheres and

Manipur, too, is progressing in many sectors.

He, however, said many areas still remain uncovered and law-and-order problem is a big hindrance in development, affecting all communities in the state.

The chief minister said it must be remembered that Manipur is for all communities inhabiting in the state and any negative activity in the
progress of the state affects one and all in the state.

He appealed to every section of people to fully cooperate in the development initiatives and work for unity and integrity of the state as well as of the country.

The day was also celebrated in all district and sub-divisional headquarters of the state.

In Assam’s Jorhat, Fr K.A. Thomas was felicitated by deputy commissioner Virendra Mittal during the Republic Day celebration for his
work to uplift the Mising community. The river island of Majuli celebrated its first Republic Day as a district with Chandra Mohan
Patowary hoisting the Tricolour.

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