The Naga Peoples’ Organisation (NPO) and Karong-Senapati Town Committee (KSTC) have condemned an alleged arson attempt at the Shri Shri Pashupati Nath Mandir in Senapati, Manipur. The incident, which took place in the early hours of September 25, has raised concerns over religious tensions in the area.
Local sources report that the temple has been targeted twice in recent weeks, with the latest attack causing partial damage. CCTV footage purportedly shows a burning log being hurled towards a door within the temple compound. Earlier footage captures a masked individual hiding behind a pillar before fleeing.
The NPO and KSTC highlighted Senapati’s reputation as a town known for religious harmony and called for the swift apprehension of those responsible. Their statement emphasized the town’s commitment to maintaining social tranquility, declaring, “Any elements which work to break the social serenity is highly condemnable.”
Rajya Sabha MP Leishemba Sanajaoba also condemned the incident on Twitter, stating: “Strongly condemn Looting & setting of Shri Pashupati Nath Mandir, Senapati, Manipur on fire at around 1 am of 25/9/24. Every responsible citizen should condemn such barbaric act bcoz it’s an infringement of Secularism. The culprit (s) should be booked at the earliest.”
