Janata Dal-United (JD-U) candidate Wahengbam Rojit Singh alias Bullet, who is contesting from Kshetrigao constituency in Imphal East district was shot at by armed miscreants late Saturday night, two days ahead of the first phase polls.

Chief Minister N Biren Singh strongly condemned the attack and assured that those involved in the incident will not be spared regardless of their political affiliation. He also assured that a proper investigation will be conducted into the shooting.

The chief minister stated this during his visit to the injured at the hospital in the evening. Biren Singh appealed to all to refrain from indulging in violence.

Police said the incident occurred around 11.30 pm when the candidate was meeting some of his supporters at Naharup Makhapat.

Sapam Ronaldo, the driver of the candidate said Rojit Singh was shot at by one of the two assailants who came on a scooter before fleeing the scene. He was accompanied by his escort, one police constable and four VDF personnel.

Ronaldo further revealed that the candidate was shot while he was having a conversation with one John of Naharup Konjil a few meters away leaving behind his escort team.  

Despite a chase by the escort team, the gunmen managed to escape taking advantage of the narrow routes of the area, added Ronalda.

The 42-year-old received a bullet on his right chest and was evacuated to a private hospital in Imphal. He is reported to be out of danger. The police have registered an FIR in connection with the incident.