Two Migrant Labourers Shot Dead in Manipur; CM of Manipur & Bihar Announce Ex-Gratia for Victims' Families

Two migrant labourers were tragically shot dead by unidentified assailants in Keirak, a locality falling under Kakching police station in Manipur. The incident occurred on December 14 around 5 pm while the victims, Sunalal Kumar (18) and Dasharat Kumar (17), both residents of Bihar, were returning to their rented accommodation after completing their work on a construction site.

The attack took place along National Highway 137(A) at Keirak Yawabung. The perpetrators, whose identities remain unknown, opened fire at the two young workers. Despite immediate efforts by the Kakching police to rush the victims to a nearby hospital, both were declared dead upon arrival.

In response to the shocking crime, Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar expressed his sorrow and extended condolences to the grieving families. In a statement, he announced an ex-gratia payment of Rs 2 lakh each to the victims' families and directed the state's social welfare and labour departments to ensure that the families receive all eligible benefits under the welfare schemes.

Meanwhile, Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh strongly condemned the killings, describing the act as an act of "terrorism." He offered his deepest condolences to the families and assured that a thorough investigation would be conducted. CM Singh also announced an ex-gratia of Rs 10 lakh each for the families of the deceased migrant workers and hinted at the possibility of involving the National Investigation Agency (NIA) if necessary, to uncover any larger conspiracy behind the brutal killings.

A case has been registered by the Kakching police, and investigations are underway to bring the perpetrators to justice.