In a disturbing incident on Wednesday night, a Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) jawan opened fire at his camp in Lamsang, located in the Imphal West District of Manipur. The attack resulted in the deaths of two personnel and injuries to eight others before the assailant, identified as Havildar Sanjay Kumar, turned the weapon on himself. This tragic event has cast a shadow over security forces stationed in the region and has raised urgent concerns about mental health and interpersonal relations within high-stress environments.
According to the Manipur Police, the incident took place around 8 pm during what was supposedly a routine interaction among colleagues. As the shots rang out, chaos ensued in the camp, which is part of the F-120 Coy CRPF unit deployed to maintain order amidst persistent ethnic tensions in the area. The gunfire claimed the lives of a constable and a sub-inspector on the scene, while a third victim later succumbed to injuries sustained during the incident at the hospital.
Preliminary investigations indicate that the shooting may have stemmed from a personal dispute. Witnesses recounted the sudden eruption of gunfire that filled the camp with confusion and panic. The Manipur Police confirmed the incident on social media, describing it as a suspected case of fratricide among the ranks of the CRPF.
The injured personnel were promptly transported to a nearby hospital for medical attention, where teams are working diligently to stabilize their conditions. Security officials have assured that the situation is now under control and that measures have been taken to secure the area against further incidents.
This sad occurrence happens against a backdrop of ongoing ethnic unrest in Manipur, which has seen violent clashes between the Meitei community and the Kuki-Zo tribes since May 2023. The violence has not only resulted in numerous casualties but has also led to widespread displacements and an atmosphere of tension within the state. The pressures faced by security forces in the area are significant, as they work to maintain peace in a conflict-prone environment.
In the wake of the shooting, senior CRPF and police officials have rushed to the scene and commenced an internal inquiry into the events leading up to the incident. The authorities have also initiated reviews of protocols concerning stress management and mental health support for personnel deployed in high-pressure situations. The CRPF has expressed its condolences to the families affected and promised to provide necessary assistance.
“This is a deeply distressing incident. We mourn the loss of our brave personnel and are committed to investigating the underlying causes to prevent such occurrences in the future,” stated a senior CRPF official.
The incident occurs during a period of heightened political tension, as Manipur has recently been placed under President’s Rule following the resignation of Chief Minister N. Biren Singh. The ongoing ethnic strife presents a persistent challenge for law enforcement and has prompted increased security measures in the region.
Community leaders and local organizations have reacted with shock, calling for urgent reforms in how security forces support their personnel’s mental well-being. Mental health professionals have advocated for proactive strategies, emphasizing the need for regular counseling sessions and mental health check-ups for those stationed in conflict zones.
As the investigation continues, further details are anticipated in the coming days, highlighting the urgent need for addressing these critical issues within the security framework in Manipur.
