In a flare-up of tensions in Manipur, Kuki protesters clashed with central security forces in the Kangpokpi district on Friday evening, resulting in several injuries on both sides. The protesters, predominantly from the Kuki tribes, had been engaged in an ongoing economic blockade in the region, demanding the withdrawal of central forces from the hills of Kangpokpi, located 45 km from the state capital, Imphal.
The confrontation occurred after the protesters attempted to halt transport as part of their blockade. Sources reported that the protesters had been trying to disrupt traffic in the area to press their demand for the withdrawal of central security personnel. When security forces intervened and asked the protesters to retreat, the situation quickly escalated. The protesters moved towards the office of the Kangpokpi Deputy Commissioner and began throwing stones at the building.
In response, security forces used tear gas and fired blank rounds to disperse the crowd. Several protesters were injured in the clash. Among the injured was Kangpokpi Superintendent of Police (SP) Manoj Prabhakar, an Indian Police Service (IPS) officer, who sustained injuries to his forehead. Other security personnel were also reported to be injured during the unrest.
Amid the clashes, some individuals were seen carrying automatic weapons, adding to the tension. These armed individuals were reportedly seen taking control of key roads in the Kangpokpi area, further intensifying the standoff. This is not the first time firearms have been involved in protests, as earlier incidents of ethnic violence in the region had seen armed individuals among protesters.
Earlier on Friday, a Kuki organization extended its economic blockade across areas in Manipur inhabited by Kuki tribes. The Kuki-Zo Council, a local Kuki organization, declared that the blockade would continue until 2 am on Saturday. This extension of the blockade came as Manipur’s new Governor, Ajay Kumar Bhalla, assumed office.
The Kuki community has been in conflict with the Meitei community, which is dominant in the Imphal valley, over demands for separate administrative status and equitable resource distribution. The clashes between the Meitei and Kuki communities, which began in May 2023, have resulted in over 250 deaths and the displacement of nearly 50,000 people.
The government of Manipur has responded to the escalating situation by sending reinforcements to the Kangpokpi area and continuing efforts to control the unrest. Despite the ongoing violence, the protests show no sign of subsiding as tensions remain high between the two ethnic groups.
As the situation continues to develop, the Manipur government and local authorities are closely monitoring the situation, and efforts are being made to prevent further violence while addressing the demands of the protesters.
Sources By Agencies