In a harrowing incident that unfolded on a seemingly peaceful Friday afternoon in Moirang, Manipur, the tranquility was shattered by the use of sophisticated drone technology followed by the firing of a long-range rocket. This attack targeted the home of M C Koireng, the former Chief Minister of the state, located specifically in Moirang Kumam, a region within the Bishnupur District. The assailants, suspected to be Kuki terrorists, employed what has been described by onlookers as a 'crude rocket' which caused significant devastation. The impact of this attack was severe: it resulted in the death of one elderly individual and left five others with varying injuries.

The sole casualty of this brutal assault was a 70-year-old priest named RK Rabei. He resided in Moirang Pheewangbam Leikai and was well-known within his community. At the time of the attack, Priest Rabei was deeply engaged in the preparations for an Asti ceremony at the former Chief Minister’s residence. It is particularly tragic that he was offering prayers when he was struck by shrapnel from the rocket, leading to immediate and fatal injuries to his head. Locals recount the moment with sorrow, emphasizing the suddenness of the attack which allowed no chance for the priest or others to seek safety.

Furthermore, the rocket attack injured five additional individuals, each of whom had been participating in or were in the vicinity of the ongoing ceremony. These individuals include Sherina Mairenbam, a 13-year-old girl whose youth makes her injury particularly poignant; Konjenbam Jugendro, aged 51, who experienced the terror of the attack first-hand; Rajeev, commonly known as Bobo, who at 58 years old found himself amidst unexpected violence; Salam Nanao, a 40-year-old whose life was abruptly disrupted; and Ngangom Ibobi, aged 62, who also suffered due to this senseless act of violence. Each of these individuals now faces a painful recovery period, both physically and emotionally, as they deal with the trauma of this incident.

In a concerning development in the ongoing conflict in Manipur, armed groups identified as Kuki militants have escalated their tactics by employing a surface-to-surface missile. This marks the first time such advanced weaponry has been used by militant factions within the state, signaling a significant escalation in the hostilities that began last year. Reports indicate that this rocket, described as locally made, boasted a range of 10 kilometers, showcasing a concerning level of technical capability within these groups.

The rocket was launched from the Churachandpur hills, an area predominantly inhabited by the Kuki community, and was aimed at a highly significant and symbolic target. The residence of former Chief Minister M C Koireng, located at Sendra in the Bishnupur district, was struck by this missile. Notably, the impact occurred close to another historically important site—the house of Mairembam Koireng Singh, Manipur’s first Chief Minister. This location is just 100 meters from the Indian National Army (INA) Museum, situated in the heart of Moirang town by the banks of Loktak Lake, the largest freshwater lake in the northeast of India.

The choice of the missile's trajectory and its close proximity to the INA Museum, dedicated to Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose, has led to suspicions that the museum itself might have been the intended target. This aspect introduces a potential shift in the militants' targets, possibly aiming at symbols of historical and national significance, which could represent a new, alarming dimension to the conflict. The implications of such actions are profound, as they suggest a possible intention to disrupt or challenge historical narratives and cultural heritage, which could have far-reaching consequences beyond the immediate physical damage.

September has brought a troubling resurgence of violence to Manipur, with this recent incident marking the second rocket attack within the state on the same Friday. According to detailed reports, armed individuals launched rockets from RPGs (rocket-propelled grenades) from the hills surrounding the area of Tronglaobi in the Bishnupur district. This aggressive act resulted in extensive damage to private properties, impacting two structures specifically, although, fortunately, there were no injuries reported from this specific assault. The situation escalated quickly following the RPG attack, as intense crossfire broke out between the armed attackers and the security forces. The latter responded promptly and decisively to the aggression, engaging in a fierce exchange of fire with the militants.

This latest wave of violence follows closely on the heels of another severe attack carried out by Kuki militants. Just days before the rocket attacks, these militants had employed drones to drop bombs on a Meitei village located in the Imphal West district. This drone attack resulted in the tragic loss of two civilian lives and left many others injured. In a particularly bold and deceptive maneuver, insurgents had infiltrated Koutruk village, disguised as emergency services personnel aboard an ambulance. Once inside, they opened fire on the unsuspecting residents of the village, in addition to deploying bombs via drones. The report also notes that apart from drones, long-range sniper rifles were utilized during the attack, adding a further layer of complexity and danger to the assault.

The use of such varied and sophisticated weaponry underscores the severity of the threat posed by these militant groups. The employment of disguises and high-tech equipment indicates a high level of premeditation and resourcefulness, which makes these attacks particularly alarming. The ongoing conflict, marked by these recent violent outbreaks, highlights the critical challenges facing the region. It brings to the forefront the pressing need for effective strategies to protect civilians, safeguard properties, and restore peace in the area. The local and national security apparatus must adapt quickly to the evolving tactics of these militant groups to prevent further loss of life and damage.