Punchline: On September 20, 2025, gunmen attacked an Assam Rifles convoy in Bishnupur, killing two brave soldiers and injuring five others. The shocking attack has once again exposed the fragile peace in Manipur.
The Ambush in Bishnupur
On Friday evening, around 5:45 pm, a convoy of Assam Rifles was moving along National Highway-2 when it came under sudden fire. The attack happened at Nambol Sabal Leikai in Bishnupur district, barely eight kilometers from Imphal Airport. The soldiers were traveling from their Patsoi company base to the Nambol base when unidentified gunmen ambushed their 407-Tata vehicle with heavy gunfire.
Witnesses say the firing was intense and lasted several minutes, creating panic in the nearby villages. The road, which is usually busy with both civilian and military vehicles, turned into a scene of chaos as soldiers scrambled for cover and later returned fire.
Casualties and Injuries
The attack left two soldiers dead: Naib Subedar Shyam Gurung and Rifleman Ranjit Singh Kashyap. Their names have already become symbols of courage and sacrifice in the Assam Rifles community. Both had served in several sensitive operations in the Northeast before falling in this tragic attack.
Five more soldiers were injured, suffering bullet wounds and shrapnel injuries. They were rushed to the Regional Institute of Medical Sciences (RIMS), Imphal, where doctors provided emergency care. While their condition is said to be stable, they will need time to recover from their injuries and the trauma of the incident.
The bodies of the two martyrs were brought back with full honors, and senior officers of the Assam Rifles have already paid their respects.
Why the Attack Matters
This ambush is alarming for many reasons. First, it happened on NH-2, one of the most important highways in Manipur, used daily by thousands of civilians. Attacking on such a road sends a clear message that militants are trying to disrupt normal life and target areas close to the state’s capital, Imphal.
Second, the area where the attack happened is a denotified zone, meaning the Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA) no longer applies there. AFSPA, though controversial, gives soldiers wider powers to act against militants. Security experts believe the attackers deliberately chose this spot, knowing that restrictions are tighter on army operations here.
The Larger Context of Violence
Manipur has been going through a difficult phase since May 2023, when violent clashes erupted between the Meitei and Kuki-Zo communities. The unrest has led to hundreds of deaths, displacement of families, and destruction of property. Although the government has tried to bring peace, such ambushes show that militant groups are still active and willing to strike.
For locals, this attack has revived fears of fresh violence. Highways like NH-2 are essential for supplies, trade, and movement, and any disruption affects daily life across the state.
Official Reaction and Condemnation
The Assam Rifles issued a strong statement mourning the loss of their two soldiers and promising to continue their mission in the Northeast. Tributes have poured in from across the country, with leaders in Imphal and New Delhi condemning the attack. The Chief Minister of Manipur has vowed strong action, while central security agencies have been asked to provide a detailed report.
Citizens’ groups and local communities expressed grief but also demanded answers. Many are asking whether denotified areas are adequately secured and whether AFSPA-free zones should be reconsidered for regions where militants are still active.
Security Forces on High Alert
In the aftermath of the ambush, massive search and combing operations were launched in Bishnupur and nearby areas. Roads were blocked, vehicles checked, and additional forces deployed to hunt down the attackers. Helicopters were also used to scan the nearby forests and hills. The attackers, however, managed to escape using the dense terrain to their advantage.
Security experts believe the militants may try to strike again to prove their presence. This means security forces will need to be extra vigilant, especially along highways and in AFSPA-free zones.
What Happens Next?
The attack has put pressure on both state and central authorities to act. Key steps expected include:
- Stronger convoy protection measures like bulletproof vehicles and route sanitization.
- Better coordination between police and central forces to share intelligence in real time.
- Review of AFSPA withdrawal, to assess if it should be reimposed in sensitive areas.
- Community outreach programs to involve local people in peace-building and early reporting of suspicious movements.
Final Word
The Bishnupur ambush is a painful reminder that peace in Manipur is still fragile. The sacrifice of Naib Subedar Shyam Gurung and Rifleman Ranjit Singh Kashyap must not be forgotten. Their courage highlights the dangers soldiers face daily while protecting the country. For Manipur’s people, the incident is another wake-up call that more needs to be done to ensure true security and stability.
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Author: Team BTP
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