BSF Constable Killed in Manipur Crossfire, Body to Reach Malda Village Sunday
The body of Border Security Force constable Mithun Mandal, who was tragically killed in crossfire between two ethnic groups in Manipur's Ukhrul district on Friday, is scheduled to reach his native village in Bhagjantola, under Mothabari Police Station in Malda district, on Sunday. This somber return marks the end of a nine-year service career for the brave jawan, who served with the 170 Battalion.
A Father's Heartbreaking Account
Mithun's father, Mantu Mandal, a farmer, shared the devastating sequence of events that unfolded on Friday. "The first phone call on Friday afternoon informed us that his condition was serious. Within minutes, another call came announcing his death," he recounted, highlighting the sudden and shocking nature of the loss. Mithun, the elder of two brothers, had dedicated nearly a decade to the BSF, making his untimely death a profound blow to his family and community.
Political Criticism Over Manipur Violence
In the wake of this tragedy, Trinamool Congress general secretary Abhishek Banerjee took to social media to pay tribute to Mithun Mandal as a brave jawan while launching a sharp critique of the central government. In a post on X, Banerjee stated, "Those who lecture Bengal about 'Poriborton' should first turn their gaze towards Manipur. The Prime Minister and his Home Minister have all the time in the world to campaign in Bengal, but not a single minute to visit Manipur and bring a lasting solution to the ethnic violence that has been raging for three long years."
He further emphasized the severe toll of the conflict, noting that nearly 300 people have been killed, with tens of thousands displaced and injured. This statement underscores ongoing political tensions regarding the handling of the Manipur situation, which has seen persistent ethnic strife.
Context of the Incident
The crossfire incident in Ukhrul district is part of a broader pattern of violence in Manipur, where ethnic clashes have led to significant casualties and displacement over recent years. The death of Constable Mithun Mandal brings this conflict into sharp focus, highlighting the risks faced by security personnel deployed in volatile regions.
As the body prepares for its final journey to Malda, the community mourns the loss of a dedicated serviceman, while political discourse continues to grapple with the challenges of resolving the deep-seated issues in Manipur.
