Imphal, Sept 22: Manipur’s Imphal Valley witnessed clashes between protesters and police, resulting in at least 15 people being injured. The protests were sparked by demands for the unconditional release of five individuals arrested on charges of impersonating police officers and carrying firearms.
Protesters Clash with Police
Protesters attempted to storm police stations in defiance of the arrests, leading to confrontations with the police. In response, the police fired tear gas shells to disperse the crowds. The protesters claimed that the five arrested individuals were village defense volunteers.
Arrested Individuals Include Militant Member and Drug Addict
According to the police, one of the arrested individuals is a trained member of a banned militant outfit in the state, while another is a drug addict who runs a rehabilitation center. These arrests had triggered the protests, with demonstrators demanding their release.
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Curfew and Prohibition Enforced
As a precautionary measure, the state government decided to cancel curfew relaxations in Imphal East and Imphal West districts, imposing complete prohibition in these areas. The curfew, which was previously relaxed from 5 am to 9 pm on September 21, was withdrawn at 5 pm, and restrictions on the movement of people outside their residences were enforced throughout the two districts.
Protests and Demands for Release
The protests were organized in response to calls from six local clubs and Meira Paibis, with hundreds of protesters holding placards and shouting slogans. They attempted to enter various police stations in Imphal East and Imphal West districts, including Andro, Porompat, Singjamei, Kwakeithel, and Mayang Imphal police outpost, demanding the immediate release of the five arrested individuals.
48-Hour Bandh Disrupts Normal Life
Additionally, normal life in the Imphal Valley was disrupted due to a 48-hour bandh called by Meira Paibi and five local clubs, further intensifying the demands for the release of the arrested men. Six civil organizations issued appeals to all local bodies to assemble at the nearest police station in their respective areas in support of the protesters.
The situation in Manipur remains tense as clashes between protesters and security forces continue, with ongoing calls for the release of the detained individuals. Authorities are closely monitoring the developments and implementing measures to maintain law and order in the region.
