Opposition MLA Shyamkumar Thounaojam representing the Andro constituency had a miraculous escape on Friday night when some unidentified persons tried to assassinate him while he was going for a marriage ceremony.
Mr. Thounaojam told reporters that while he was nearing Koirengei, a car tried to overtake his car and bump into it. However, his driver managed to drive away from it. The persons inside that car opened three rounds of fire at the MLA. No one was injured in the incident.
Mr. Thounaojam’s guards tried to overtake the escaping car but the assailants sped away and entered the Army camp at Leimakhong. However, the sentries at the camp prevented the MLA and his guards from entering, stating that they must obtain permission from the General Officer Commanding, the Minister said.
Mr. Thounaojam said he wanted to know if the assailants were Army personnel or former militants staying inside the camp after surrendering.The MLA said he called up Deputy Chief Minister Gaikhangam Gangmei who also holds the Home portfolio.
After apprising him of what had happened, the MLA requested him to rush police and paramilitary personnel to nab the assailants, However, Mr. Gangmei reportedly refused to oblige him. Instead, Mr. Gangmei asked him to return to Imphal and lodge a complaint with the police.
Mr. Gangmei has declined to comment on the incident.
