Bomb drones deployed by warring tribes in India’s forgotten civil war

For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Manipur Conflict: Key Points The Manipur conflict began in May 2023, sparked by the proposed extension of minority status to the Meitei community – Ethnic tensions between Meitei and Kuki communities have resulted in at least 225 deaths and 60,000 displacements – Armed militias control territories, setting up checkpoints and bunkers – Recent drone attacks have escalated violence – The government has formed a high-level committee to investigate the violent incidents He does not remember how many drones were dropping bombs but he claims there were more than one, adding: “Because when the volunteers gathered in my house to take shelter, we heard simultaneous bomb-dropping sounds from every corner of the village. “We are used to defending the village using mortar shells, but were not prepared that Kukis would use this much technology to attack us.” He alleges that India’s paramilitary Border Security Force, permanently stationed to protect the village, also abandoned it as the bombs started dropping. open image in gallery Police use teargas to disperse students protesting against a fresh wave of ethnic violence in Imphal While at least five homes in the village were burnt down in the sporadic attacks that started at around 3pm, going on till 8.30pm, he is grateful that his home “is only partially damaged” and he was able to send his wife, children, and mother away soon after the firing began. “We hope that we will be able to bring the situation under control,” Shah said at an event this week discussing the first 100 days of Narendra Modi’s third term in power, adding: “If both do not come to an understanding, there won’t be a resolution to the matter.” open image in gallery Protesters gather as security personnel block their way along a street during a curfew in Imphal More than two weeks on, Ingo still struggles to come to terms with the loss of his wife.