Rallies and shutdowns marked the third anniversary of ethnic violence that erupted on May 3, 2023, claimed over 260 lives and displaced more than 60,000 people, followed by the imposition of President’s Rule for a year in the violence-hit BJP-ruled Manipur state. The rallies and shutdowns were held in both Kuki-Zo and Meitei-dominated areas of the state. 

Meanwhile, suspected attackers triggered a bomb explosion in Imphal West district near a camp of the Territorial Army and the Imphal International Airport's New Cargo Terminal. The blast site was reported to be near a crematorium constructed close to the fencing of the airport at Malom Tuliyaima.  

Reports said that some unidentified persons on a two-wheeler placed a low-intensity improvised explosive device between the New Cargo Terminal of Imphal Airport and the camp of the Indian Territorial Army.President's Rule was imposed in the violence-hit state on February 13, 2025 after the BJP-led government headed by Biren Singh resigned on February 9, following months of ethnic violence. 

The 60-member assembly, which has a tenure till 2027, had been placed under suspended animation after President's Rule was imposed. It was revoked on February 4, 2026, hours before the formation of a new state BJP government with BJP leader Y. Khemchand Singh as the chief minister. 

Credit: Independent News Pakistan (INP)