Tuesday, January 25 2005 14:57 Hrs (IST) - World Time -

Imphal: Two insurgents have been killed and a powerful bomb exploded in separate incidents in past 24 hours in Manipur as security forces intensified patrolling for tomorrow's (Jan 26, 2005) Republic Day celebrations amid boycott call given by insurgents, official sources said today (Jan 25, 2005).

Sources said two suspected insurgents were killed late last night during an encounter between them and security forces at Lamsang area in Imphal West district.

The bodies have been sent to Regional Institute of Medical Science Hospital for post mortem, sources said adding that a powerful bomb, planted by unknown insurgents, went off at than Khunjeng area in Bishenpur district last night.

No casualty was reported.

Sources said security measures have been tightened and all police posts put on red alert in view of the Republic day boycott call given by various insurgent organisations and some social organisations.

Sources said Central and State forces were deployed at various strategic points particularly in Imphal area besides stepping up patrolling to detect movement of armed ultras.

Manipur Chief Secretary Jairnail Singh had also instructed all Government officials and employees to attend the Republic Day celebrations tomorrow, sources said adding that action would be initiated against those senior level officials who absented from the celebration.