IMPHAL, APRIL 17 — Clashes between security forces and protesters in Imphal West on Thursday night left at least five people injured as a demonstration seeking justice for two slain children turned volatile. The incident occurred near the private residence of Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh in the Singjamei area.
The protest was sparked by the deaths of a five-year-old boy and his six-month-old sister, who were killed earlier this month in an explosion in the Tronglaobi area of Bishnupur district. Hundreds of demonstrators participated in a torchlight rally that covered approximately seven kilometers before being halted by a security cordon around 600 meters from the Chief Minister’s home.
Authorities noted that the situation escalated when some participants attempted to bypass the blockade while chanting slogans. Security personnel used tear gas shells and mock bombs to push back the crowd, while protesters responded by throwing stones and using slingshots. The confrontation reportedly continued until approximately 1:00 a.m. Friday.
Manipur Home Minister Govindas Konthoujam stated that the investigation into the Tronglaobi explosion has been transferred to the National Investigation Agency (NIA). He affirmed that five suspected members of an underground outfit have been arrested in connection with the attack.
The ongoing ethnic conflict in Manipur has resulted in over 260 deaths and the displacement of roughly 60,000 residents since May 2023. Officials maintained that a 5:00 p.m. to 5:00 a.m. curfew remains active in five districts to prevent further unrest.
