Manipur police have confirmed that two people died in an explosion that rocked the Gangpimual village in the state’s Churachandpur district on Saturday evening.

 Fin of a mortar shell at site of the explosion in Manipur

Fin of a mortar shell at site of the explosion in Manipur | India Today

Two, including a six-year-old, died in an explosion that rocked Manipur’s Churachandpur district on Saturday evening. The explosion reportedly took place at around 7.30 pm in Gangpimual village.

Sources in the police said a preliminary probe suggests that the explosion could have been an accidental one. It could have occurred after local residents allegedly picked up an unexploded mortar shell from the nearby BSF firing range, sources added.

As per initial reports, seven injured were evacuated from the site of the explosion and taken to the district hospital for treatment. Two of these injured, including a six-year-old, succumbed to injuries at the district hospital while one person is in critical condition.

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The deceased have been identified as 6-year-old Mangminlal and 22-year-old Langginsang.

Manipur police have found one fin unit of a mortar shell and some splinters at the site of the explosion.

Speaking to India Today, both the District Commissioner and District Superintendent said no underground or terror outfit had claimed responsibility for the explosion.

The incident came to light with less than 48 hours to go for the first phase of Assembly polls in Manipur.