On November 26, 2024, demonstrations erupted outside the Leimakhong Army Camp in Imphal West following the mysterious disappearance of Laishram Kamalbabu Singh, a works supervisor employed by a contractor associated with the Military Engineering Services. Singh, originally from Assam’s Cachar district, had left his home in Khukrul on the afternoon of November 25 to report for duty at the military facility but did not return that evening, prompting immediate concern from his family.
In response to his disappearance, the Army initiated a large-scale search operation. Defence officials reported that all available resources were deployed, including the analysis of CCTV footage, interviews with co-workers, and the use of tracker dogs. Despite thorough searches of the surrounding areas, Singh and his two-wheeler have not been found. Efforts have since expanded to include aerial reconnaissance with drones and coordination with local civil society organizations in an attempt to locate the missing man. Authorities have reassured Singh’s family that every possible measure is being taken for his safe return.
The situation turned tense when hundreds of demonstrators from the Meitei community organized a march toward the military camp, demanding information about Singh. Their movement was halted near Kanto Sabal to prevent further escalation, leading to protesters blocking the road with rocks. In a bid to ease tensions, the Army has requested that the Meitei civil society organizations help to remove these blockades, emphasizing the need for unimpeded access for military and police operations.
Protesters expressed fears that Singh may have been kidnapped by militants and urged the state government to send additional forces for his rescue. The Leimakhong Military Station, which is about 16 kilometers from Imphal, has a complex security context, surrounded by hills predominantly inhabited by the Kuki community. This demographic tension is heightened by the ethnic violence that has plagued the region since May of the previous year, which has resulted in over 250 fatalities.
As the search continues and community tensions rise, both the Army and state police are working together to address the crisis and navigate the precarious situation in the region.
