Saikawt, June 20, 2025: In a deeply distressing incident, two young boys from Churachandpur district, Manipur, lost their lives by drowning in the Tuithapui River near Saikawt village at approximately 3:00 PM today.
The victims have been identified as Master Lianmuonsang (13) of Gangpimuol and Master Siammuanlal (14) of Khominthang.
Eyewitness accounts reveal that the boys were among a group of about seven children who had gone to play by the riverbank. While some of the children were already in the water, Lianmuonsang and Siammuanlal reportedly ventured further in, unaware of the depth. Tragically, both boys drowned.
Initially, the remaining children did not realize what had occurred. When the boys failed to return, panic ensued and the group began calling for help. Nearby farmers, hearing the cries, quickly rushed to the scene and initiated a search. Siammuanlal’s body was the first to be recovered, with Lianmuonsang’s following after further efforts.
Assisted by village elders and members of the Hmar Youth Association (HYA), both bodies were brought to the Saikawt Community Hall. A solemn vigil was held, attended by community leaders, the Young Paite Association (YPA), HYA, and local residents, who gathered to offer prayers and support to the bereaved families.
At around 6:00 PM, the HYA Tuithaphai Joint Headquarters organized a formal condolence gathering. As a mark of respect, the boys were draped in traditional Hmar Thangsuopuon shawls. Pastor Chunglur offered words of comfort and led a prayer service. Ambulances from HYA Tuithaphai JHQ and Rengkai Village later transported the bodies to their respective homes.
