Manipur’s deputy CM escapes militant attack

GUWAHATI: Manipur’s Deputy Chief Minister Gaikhangam was ambushed by unidentified gunmen in Thingkhongjang village in Noney district. He was ambushed twice and one security personnel was injured.

Gaikhangam was on his way to his residence in Gaidimjang in Khoupum to hoist the party's flag in connection with the upcoming assembly elections. Gaikhangam was safely escorted till Gaidimjang in a bullet-proof vehicle.

A senior police official told ET, “From hill tops near Nungkaolong village there was firing by unidentified miscreants. The second attack took place when security forces moved ahead.”

Gaikhangam has been critical of the role of militant outfit NSCN-IM in the blockade of two highways, which has ravaged the state since November 1 last year. Now, there is speculation if NSCN-IM is behind the attack. No group so far has claimed responsibility of the incidents.