In the early hours of June 5, unknown armed individuals attacked a chariot being prepared for the upcoming Ratha Yatra festival in Manipur capital Imphal. The incident occurred around 12:30 am near Sana Konung crossing.
Sources report that the miscreants arrived in a car from the direction of Advance Hospital, fired two shots at the parked chariot, and fled towards Palace Gate. Imphal East Police were promptly alerted and arrived at the scene to investigate and search for the attackers.
The motive behind the attack remains unclear. This incident comes amid ongoing unrest in the region and public debate on social media about whether the Ratha Yatra festival, scheduled for June 8, should proceed.
Last year, due to similar concerns, the Ratha Yatra was observed on a smaller scale, with only ritual ceremonies taking place and the traditional procession being cancelled.
