Four civilians were killed in firing between security forces and militants in Umathel village in Thoubal district, around 70 km from here. The incident occurred around 9 pm on Wednesday.There are conflicting reports on which side is to be held responsible. While locals blamed security forces, a press release by the PIB (Defence Wing) said militants of the KYKL fired on a vehicle carrying civilians from a school compound, killing four and injuring two. An Assam Rifles Area Domination Patrol vehicle moving ahead tried to engage the militants, but failed. The state government has announced an ex-gratia of Rs 1 lakh to the kin.The CM has ordered an inquiry by the Deputy Collector of Thoucbal district into the incident.
