An Assam Rifles jawan posted in Manipur near the Indo-Myanmar border allegedly fired at his colleagues before shooting himself dead.

Six soldiers have sustained injuries and have been rushed to the military hospital in Churachandpur. The incident took place within the AR battalion premises, where the soldier, hailing from Churachandpur, discharged his firearm at fellow AR personnel.

The soldier, identified as a Kuki, succumbed to his injuries. According to reports, victims are neither Meities nor residents of Manipur.

Following the incident, the Assam Rifles categorically emphasised that it is not an outcome of the ongoing conflict in the state. “In light of the ongoing ethnic strife in Manipur, it is important to share the details of the incident transparently to dispel any potential rumours and avoid any speculation,” the central paramilitary force said.

“All Assam Rifles battalions have mixed class composition including those belonging to various communities from Manipur. All personnel have been staying and operating together despite polarisation of society to maintain peace and stability in Manipur,” it added.