Recent findings in Manipur have raised serious concerns about regional security. The recovery of rocket tails following sophisticated drone and missile attacks has brought into question the availability of advanced weaponry in the area, particularly from neighboring Myanmar. Intelligence sources are linking this development to the potential involvement of cross-border insurgent groups and the shortcomings of state police and security forces in dealing with these threats.
Drones were first sighted in November 2023, causing significant disruptions. Two Indigo flights were diverted, and one was delayed by three hours due to drone sightings near the airport airspace. This incident sparked alarms about the increasing use of unmanned aerial vehicles in insurgent activities.
According to top intelligence sources, there is growing evidence of insurgent groups, particularly the Kuki factions, utilizing advanced weaponry sourced from countries like China, Pakistan, and North Korea. These groups, historically involved in ethnic and territorial conflicts, are now reportedly leveraging sophisticated long-range missiles and drones to further their cause. The infiltration of such technology poses a major security risk, not only to Manipur but also to neighboring states and countries.
The recovery of rocket components from these attacks points to a larger network of arms smuggling, allegedly facilitated through Myanmar. This has raised questions about the effectiveness of border controls and the role of security forces in mitigating the growing threat of insurgency in the region.
In light of these developments, it is imperative for the Indian government to step up surveillance and border control measures while reassessing the capabilities of local law enforcement. With the increasing involvement of external actors and insurgent groups in regional conflicts, Manipur’s security landscape appears to be facing a dangerous new reality.