Manipur: Multiple landmine explosions kill villagers along Myanmar border, says MLA

Imphal: A growing number of landmine explosions along the Manipur-Myanmar border have claimed the lives of several villagers, prompting urgent action from the state government.

Leishiyo Keishing, MLA representing the border district of Kamjong, raised the alarming issue in the Manipur Assembly on Friday, highlighting the plight of residents living in constant fear.

According to the MLA, multiple landmines have been planted by Myanmar militants between border pillars 91 and 94, resulting in casualties and injuries.

Two female students lost their lives in a landmine blast on July 26, while another incident on July 16 claimed the life of a Rongmei Naga villager and injured another. In May alone, there were two separate landmine explosions, one in Namlee village and another near Z Choro village.

Chief Minister N. Biren Singh acknowledged the gravity of the situation and announced the formation of a joint survey team comprising Assam Rifles, Manipur police, and intelligence officials to locate, remove, and defuse the landmines.

The findings of the survey will be shared with the Prime Minister and External Affairs Minister for coordinated action with Myanmar authorities.

Chief Minister Singh also assured the Assembly that the central government would be informed about the cross-border landmine threat.