Clashes Erupt in Manipur Amid Protests Over Free Movement
Guwahati: A tragic incident occurred in Manipur’s Kangpokpi district on Saturday, where a 30-year-old man lost his life due to police firing during protests against the Centre’s decision to resume free movement across the state, which has been engulfed in strife. Over 20 others, primarily women, sustained injuries amid the escalating violence.
Protests Turn Violent
The clashes erupted in Kuki-dominated areas such as Gamgiphai, Motbung, and Keithelmanbi, as demonstrators attempted to block vehicles, including a state transport bus traveling from Imphal to Senapati. Protesters responded by setting at least two vehicles ablaze.
Indefinite Bandh Called
The Kuki Zo Council has declared an indefinite bandh, while the Meitei community criticized the blockade. The situation remains tense, with security forces on high alert throughout the region.
Government’s Response
Home Minister Amit Shah had previously instructed state authorities to ensure free movement on all roads in Manipur, aiming to bridge the divide between the Meitei and Kuki-Zo communities. Despite the state resuming inter-district government bus services under heavy security, participation has been minimal.
Voices from the Community
Unrest has also spread to the Meitei-dominated valley, where security forces halted a peace march by the Federation of Civil Society (FOCS) at Sekmai before it could reach Kangpokpi. FOCS president T Manihar questioned the government’s commitment to allowing free movement of the public amid ongoing tensions.
Warnings from Kuki-Zo Council
The Kuki-Zo Council has voiced strong opposition to unrestricted movement, cautioning that it could lead to further violence. They have called for an indefinite shutdown across all Kuki-Zo areas but maintain that they do not oppose the movement of essential commodities.
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