Manipur: NIA Arrests Third Accused in Kwakta IED Blast Case
📰 News Summary
On April 18, 2025, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) rearrested Md Islamuddin Khan from his residence in Bishnupur district, Manipur, in connection with the Kwakta IED blast case of 2023. Khan, previously granted a pardon after turning approver, has now been remanded to seven days of judicial custody by a special NIA court. This marks the third arrest in the case, following the earlier detentions of Seiminlun Gangte and Md Noor Hussain. The blast, which occurred on June 21, 2023, injured three individuals, including two minors. The NIA has filed charges under various sections of the IPC, UAPA, and Explosives Substances Act.
🔍 In-Depth Analysis: The Kwakta IED Blast Case
1. The Incident: A Brief Overview
On June 21, 2023, an IED explosion occurred on a bridge along Tiddim Road between Phougakchao Ikhai Awang Leikai and Kwakta in Bishnupur district, Manipur. The blast, carried out by Kuki militants, injured three individuals, including two minors. The explosion was a significant event amidst ongoing ethnic tensions in the region.
2. The Arrests: A Timeline
- First Arrest: Seiminlun Gangte, 42, from Churachandpur district, was the first to be apprehended in connection with the blast.
- Second Arrest: Md Noor Hussain, alias Tomba, 37, from Bishnupur district, was arrested subsequently.
- Third Arrest: Md Islamuddin Khan was initially arrested on October 19, 2023. He made a confessional statement and was declared an approver, receiving a pardon in exchange for his testimony. However, he has now been rearrested and remanded to judicial custody.
3. Legal Proceedings and Charges
The NIA has filed a chargesheet against the accused under various sections, including:
- Section 4 of the Prevention of Damage to Public Property Act, 1984
- Sections 120B, 326, 307, 435 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC)
- Sections 16 and 18 of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967
- Section 3 of the Explosives Substances Act
4. Implications for Manipur’s Security Landscape
The Kwakta IED blast and subsequent arrests underscore the persistent security challenges in Manipur. The involvement of local individuals in such acts of violence highlights the need for comprehensive strategies to address underlying issues and prevent future incidents.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: What was the Kwakta IED blast?
A: The Kwakta IED blast was an explosion that occurred on June 21, 2023, on a bridge in Bishnupur district, Manipur, injuring three individuals, including two minors.NorthEast Now+1NorthEast Now+1
Q2: Who has been arrested in connection with the blast?
A: Three individuals have been arrested: Seiminlun Gangte, Md Noor Hussain (alias Tomba), and Md Islamuddin Khan.NorthEast Now+2NorthEast Now+2The Economic Times+2
Q3: What charges have been filed against the accused?
A: The NIA has filed charges under various sections of the IPC, UAPA, Explosives Substances Act, and the Prevention of Damage to Public Property Act.NorthEast Now
Q4: Why was Md Islamuddin Khan rearrested?
A: Although Khan was previously granted a pardon after turning approver, he has now been rearrested and remanded to judicial custody.NorthEast Now
Q5: What are the broader implications of this case?
A: The case highlights ongoing security challenges in Manipur and the importance of addressing underlying issues to prevent future incidents.
