NIA Files Chargesheet In Manipur's Kwatka Bomb Blast Case, Names Main Conspirator

The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has filed a chargesheet against two accused, including the alleged main conspirator in the investigation of the June 2023 Kwatka vehicle-borne bomb blast case in Manipur. The blast resulted in three injuries and extensive damage to public and private properties.

The chargesheet, filed by the NIA on Friday, names Mohammad Noor Hussain, also known as Tomba, and Seiminlun Gangte, alias Minlun, under various sections of the Indian Penal Code, Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), Explosive Substances Act, and Prevention of Damage to Public Property Act.

The incident occurred on a bridge near Phougakchao Ikhai Awang Leikai and Kwakta, along Tiddim Road (NH-02), in Kwakta, Manipur. The explosion, caused by a bomb-fitted Mahindra Scorpio SUV, occurred on June 21, 2023, causing significant damage to the bridge, electric pole, electrical assets, and nearby houses.

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Investigations by the NIA led to the arrest of Mohammad Noor Hussain on October 16, who was allegedly involved in driving the IED-bearing Mahindra Scorpio SUV and positioning it over the targeted bridge. His accomplice, Seiminlun Gangte, was arrested on November 2 and identified as the key conspirator.

According to the NIA spokesperson, Seiminlun Gangte allegedly conspired with others to carry out the blast with the intention of spreading terror and disrupting the movement of security forces, civilians, and the supply of essential commodities. Gangte reportedly recruited associates to survey the targeted area and execute the explosion.

“As per NIA investigations, he had conspired, along with other accomplices, to blow off the bridge with the intent to strike terror and to cut off the movement of security forces, people and supply of commodities. To accomplish the conspiracy, Seiminlun Gangte had recruited his associates for reconnaissance of the targeted area and to execute the actual explosion,” an NIA spokesperson said in a statement on Saturday.

The investigation is ongoing to locate other absconding individuals involved in the case, as per the NIA statement.

Ethnic clashes between the Meiteis, who hold sway in the Imphal Valley, and the tribal Kuki-Zo community, predominant in certain hill districts, have rocked Manipur since May of the previous year. The turmoil has resulted in a death toll of at least 219 individuals and the displacement of approximately 50,000 residents.

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The unrest erupted on May 3 in Churachandpur town following calls from tribal Kuki factions for demonstrations against a proposed adjustment to the state's reservation framework by the court. The modification aimed to accord scheduled tribe (ST) status to the Meitei community, which constitutes the majority in the region.