Manipur Police Open Fire on Protesters, One Injured in Thoubal District
In a tense escalation of ongoing unrest in Manipur, one person sustained bullet injuries on Tuesday after police fired multiple rounds to disperse protesters opposing the inauguration of a block development office (BDO) at Wangjing. The event, presided over by Manipur Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh, was marred by demonstrations linked to the recent Tronglaobi killings, where two children lost their lives in a bomb attack.
Widespread Roadblocks and CM's Altered Travel Plans
Demonstrators took to the streets, blocking National Highway-102 at multiple locations and obstructing other key roads leading to the BDO office. This aggressive protest forced Chief Minister Singh to take a helicopter to Phundrei and complete the remaining journey by road to proceed with the planned inauguration on Tuesday afternoon. The disruptions highlighted the intensity of public anger and the logistical challenges faced by authorities.
Pre-Inauguration Tensions and Security Concerns
Prior to the inauguration, tensions had been simmering. Meira Paibi groups in Thoubal district announced a boycott of the chief minister's visit on Monday, signaling widespread discontent. The situation deteriorated further when, on Monday night, a mob assaulted a Village Defence Force (VDF) personnel with iron rods while the individual was on duty at the Wangjing BDO office. In response, security deployment was significantly stepped up across the district as authorities braced for potential violence.
Police Justify Use of Force as Protesters Advance
Manipur Police reported that a large group, armed with stones and catapults, advanced toward the inauguration venue with an apparent intent to vandalize the newly constructed BDO office. "Despite repeated warnings and appeals by police personnel to disperse, the crowd continued to move aggressively, posing a serious threat to public property, dignitaries present, and overall law and order," police stated. "In view of the escalating situation, minimum necessary force was applied. As a last resort, controlled firing was undertaken in strict adherence to established protocols to disperse the mob and neutralize the threat."
Injury and CM's Reaction to the Protests
Police confirmed that Elangbam Nandbir Singh, aged 40, was injured during the police action. Meanwhile, Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh expressed surprise at the protests in Thoubal district, contrasting it with his recent visits to hill districts where he faced no opposition. "I recently visited many hill districts and there were no opposition to my visit there. But I am surprised by the protest in Thoubal district against my visit," the CM said. He emphasized that differences could be resolved through dialogue, urging calm and constructive talks to address the underlying issues.
Background: Tronglaobi Killings Fuel Public Outrage
The protests are deeply rooted in the recent Tronglaobi killings, a tragic incident where two children were killed in a bomb attack. This event has sparked widespread anger and mourning in the community, leading to calls for justice and accountability. The inauguration of the BDO office became a flashpoint for this pent-up frustration, with demonstrators using the occasion to voice their grievances and demand action from the government.
As Manipur grapples with these challenges, the incident underscores the fragile state of law and order in the region and the urgent need for peaceful resolution mechanisms. Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely, with heightened security measures in place to prevent further escalation.
