Imphal, Aug. 22: The India Reserve Battalion jawan, T. Munal, who had hurled a hand grenade that exploded in front of Chamber Hospital yesterday, was today remanded in police custody till next Friday by the court of the first class judicial magistrate, Imphal. He has also been suspended.
“He told police that one Abe Devi had handed over the grenade to him on Tuesday following the instructions of Ibungo of the Kangleipak Communist Party (Military Council),” senior superintendent of police, L. Kailun, said.
Kailun said Munal had been engaged by the KCP (MC) for attacking the hospital.
The rifleman, posted at the 2 India Reserve Battalion headquarters at Khuman Lampak on the outskirts of the city, received Rs 5,000 for the assignment.
Of the five persons who sustained splinter injuries, the condition of eight-year-old Yashika Jain, undergoing treatment at Chamber Hospital, and that of Md Leihaluddin, admitted to Shija Hospital, is stated to be critical.
Three persons were discharged after first aid at Chamber Hospital.
Munal was also involved in attacks on two other private hospitals in the city in July.
The police are looking for Abe Devi.
Citizens’ organisations havedemanded exemplary punishment forMunal. “The members of the forces are increasingly indulging in criminal activities. The IRB personnel should be brought to book,” Th. Ramani, a meira paibi leader said.