Fresh Violence Erupts in Manipur's Churachandpur Over Deputy CM Appointment
Violent clashes broke out in Manipur's Kuki-dominated Churachandpur district on Thursday evening following widespread protests against MLA Nemcha Kipgen joining the BJP-led government as deputy chief minister. The unrest highlights ongoing ethnic tensions in the northeastern state.
Protests Turn Violent as Security Forces Intervene
According to official reports, protesters gathered near Tuibong Bazaar and set fire to a heap of discarded materials, including tyres, while raising slogans against Kipgen. The situation escalated dramatically when security forces attempted to disperse the crowd.
The protesters, who significantly outnumbered the deployed personnel, began pelting stones at security forces. In response, security personnel conducted a baton charge to control the situation. Two individuals suffered minor injuries during the incident, as confirmed by officials and reported by news agency PTI.
Tense Situation Prompts Additional Security Deployment
A senior official stated that the situation remains tense, with additional forces being rushed to the area to bring it under control. The violence follows building tensions since Wednesday evening when Kipgen, who hails from Kangpokpi, took oath as deputy chief minister.
The political developments have added a fresh dimension to governance in Manipur, a multi-ethnic state grappling with the Meitei-Kuki conflict. Yumnam Khemchand Singh of BJP was sworn in Wednesday as the Chief Minister of Manipur's reinstated NDA government, with Kuki legislator Nemcha Kipgen and Naga MLA Losii Dikho serving as his deputies.
Background of Political Reshuffling in Manipur
The appointment of Kipgen as deputy chief minister represents a significant political development in Manipur's complex ethnic landscape. The state has witnessed prolonged tensions between Meitei and Kuki communities, making such political appointments particularly sensitive.
The shared governance arrangement marks a new approach to administration in a state where ethnic divisions have frequently led to violence and unrest. However, the immediate reaction in Churachandpur suggests that not all communities are comfortable with this political arrangement.
Security officials remain on high alert as they monitor the situation in Churachandpur and surrounding areas. The incident underscores the challenges facing Manipur's government as it attempts to navigate ethnic divisions while implementing its governance agenda.
