Union Home Minister Sushil Kumar Shinde has taken a serious view of the serial bomb blasts in and around Imphal. So far 12 persons, mainly migrant workers have been killed and over 25 others injured in the blasts. Under instructions from the Union Home Ministry, Chief Minister Okram Ibobi Singh held a high-level meeting involving officials from the State, Centre and security agencies. Home Minister Gaikhangam Gangmei told reporters that the government took a serious view of the blasts targeting the innocent civilians.
He said that the terrorists had targeted the migrant workers and drivers on the eve of Diwali and Ningol Chakkouba, a social festival of the Manipuris. One proscribed underground organisation had claimed responsibility for a blast. Evidence collected by the police so far suggests the involvement of insurgents.
Meanwhile Jaykishan Khumukcham, Imphal City MLA, has offered a cash reward of Rs. 1,00,000 those who gave a tip-off on the bombers. Police have cautioned people against touching any unclaimed and suspicious looking packets.
