The Commanding Officer of an Assam Rifles unit and his family were killed in a militant attack in the Singhat sub-division of Manipur’s Churachandpur district. Four soldiers also lost their lives in the ambush.
Col Viplav Tripathi (CO-46 AR), his wife, and son are believed to have died on the spot. The other injured were reportedly rushed to Behiang Primary Health Centre.
Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh condemned the attack. He said, "Strongly condemn the cowardly attack on a convoy of 46 AR which has reportedly killed few personnel including the CO & his family at CCpur today. The State forces & Para military are already on their job to track down the militants. The perpetrators will be brought to justice."
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh also condemned the attack, he said, "The cowardly attack on an Assam Rifles convoy in Churachandpur, Manipur is extremely painful & condemnable. The nation has lost 5 brave soldiers including CO 46 AR and two family members. My condolences to the bereaved families. The perpetrators will be brought to justice soon.”