Manipur violence: Chariot for Ratha Yatra festival attacked in Imphal

Imphal: In the wee hours of Friday (July 05), unknown armed miscreants attacked a chariot being prepared for the upcoming Ratha Yatra festival in Imphal city of Manipur.

The incident occurred around 12:30 am of Friday (July 05) near the crossing of Sana Konung in Imphal city of Manipur.

According to reports, the attackers arrived in a car from the direction of Advance Hospital, fired two rounds at the parked chariot, and quickly fled towards Palace Gate.

The police in Imphal East district of Manipur were alerted immediately and arrived at the scene to investigate and search for the perpetrators.

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The motive behind the attack remains unclear.

This incident comes amid ongoing unrest in Manipur and debate on social media platforms about whether the Ratha Yatra festival, scheduled for June 08, should be celebrated.

Last year, due to similar concerns, the Ratha Yatra was observed on a smaller scale, with only ritual ceremonies taking place and the traditional procession being cancelled.