A coalition of five banned underground groups operating as G-5 has claimed responsibility for grenade attacks targeting two legislators and a fuel station in Manipur’s Thoubal district. In a joint statement, the coalition said the blasts at the lawmakers’ residences were “first warnings” over financial demands that went unmet.
Legislators Targeted
MLA S Ranjan of the BJP and MLA K Meghachandra of Congress were named in the statement. The G-5 claimed it sought financial assistance from both legislators, who refused and allegedly challenged the movement. According to the coalition, it remained silent for a year following the rejection. The decision to act came after the lawmakers’ public relations officers allegedly began speaking disrespectfully toward the group. The statement said both MLAs must bear responsibility for the conduct of their staff.
Attacks on MLA Residences
On August 28, a hand grenade was detonated at S Ranjan’s residence in Konthoujam Awang Leikai, Imphal West district. A second blast followed on September 3 at K Meghachandra’s home in Yairipok Bishnunaha, Thoubal district. The coalition said it ensured no casualties would result from both attacks. The group also accused state lawmakers of failing to unite following the May 2023 violence and said it would continue monitoring leaders it described as insincere.
Fuel Station Attack
Separately, the coalition claimed responsibility for a grenade attack on August 29 at the Sorojini Oil Pump in Wangbal, Thoubal district. The fuel station, owned by Thokchom Jadumani of Khangabok, had been banned by the group since February 1. The coalition alleged Jadumani violated the prohibition, prompting the attack. The group warned of further action against the station and called on the public to stop refueling there.
The G-5 thanked supporters who have financially backed the movement and said it does not make unreasonable demands on contractors, businesses, or the private sector. The coalition urged anyone receiving financial demands to respond in a timely manner.
G-5 Coalition Composition
The G-5 comprises the Kangleipak Communist Party, Kanglei Yawol Kanba Lup, People’s Revolutionary Party of Kangleipak, PREPAK Progressive, and the United National Liberation Front’s Koireng faction.