Imphal has witnessed an escalating situation as the Indian Army and Manipur Police personnel continue their extensive search operation for Laishram Kamalbabu Singh, a 56-year-old man from the Meitei community who has been missing since November 25. Singh, who resides in Loitang Khunou village in Imphal West, reportedly left his home to attend to his duties at the Leimakhong military station but failed to arrive, prompting a joint effort from law enforcement and military personnel.
In the four days since Singh’s disappearance, authorities have intensified searches conducted in the Leimakhong area and neighboring regions, with Defence officials confirming that all available resources are being utilized. The joint operation involves thorough inspections of CCTV footage, interviews with Singh’s colleagues, and the deployment of tracker dogs in hopes of locating him.
The missing individual has not contacted his family since he left home, and concerns are growing as his mobile phone remains switched off. Singh serves as a works supervisor for a contractor under the Military Engineering Services (MES) at Leimakhong military station.
The situation has drawn attention from community leaders and organizations. Defence officials are reportedly engaging with local village heads and civil society organizations to facilitate information gathering and support. The Army has expressed its commitment to ensuring the safety and security of Singh and has reassured his family of the extensive efforts being undertaken to find him.
Tension in the region has escalated as local communities have responded to Singh’s disappearance. Protesters from Loitang Khunou village are blocking the road leading to the headquarters of the Army’s 57th Mountain Division, demanding the safe rescue of Singh. Additionally, the Joint Action Committee (JAC) staged a sit-in protest as they called for urgent action from the authorities.
The Leimakhong military station lies about 16 kilometers from Imphal and is situated in an area that predominantly consists of Kuki-Zo tribal communities. Following the ethnic violence that erupted in Manipur in May of last year, many individuals from the Meitei community were forced to evacuate areas near the station, contributing to the current tensions in the region.
As the search continues, authorities are urging cooperation from local communities to alleviate any potential blockades that may hinder the ongoing investigation and search efforts. The priority remains on locating Singh and ensuring his safe return.
