New Delhi: Violent protests broke out across Manipur on Saturday, after the recovery of three bodies from a group of six missing people. The discovery of the bodies, believed to be of victims abducted by suspected militants, sparked public outrage and triggered intense protests, particularly in the state capital, Imphal.
A large mob attempted to storm the private residence of chief minister N Biren Singh on Saturday evening, escalating tensions between security forces and demonstrators. The protesters, demanding justice for the victims, were met with tear gas fired by security personnel to disperse the crowd.
The bodies of the three missing people were found near the confluence of the Jiri and Barak rivers along the Manipur-Assam border on Friday evening. The discovery has fueled anger, with the public accusing militants of abducting the victims, which has further intensified the ongoing unrest in the region.
Properties vandalised and set on fire
several high-profile targets were attacked by the angry mobs, including the residences of Health and Family Welfare Minister Sapam Ranjan, Consumer Affairs Minister L Susindro Singh, and Municipal Administration Minister Y Khemchand. Apart from these, the homes of six MLAs, including BJP legislator RK Imo—who is also the son-in-law of chief minister N Biren Singh—were stormed, with properties vandalised and set alight. Security forces responded by firing tear gas shells to disperse the crowds.
In response to the escalating violence, the state administration imposed curfews in Imphal East, Imphal West, Bishnupur, Thoubal, and Kakching districts. The authorities also temporarily suspended internet and mobile data services in seven districts to prevent the spread of misinformation and quell further unrest.
Call for pepeal of AFSPA
The Manipur government has requested the Centre to review and withdraw the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA), which has been reimposed in several areas of the state. The controversial law grants the armed forces sweeping powers, including the ability to arrest without a warrant and use force against civilians. On November 14, the Ministry of Home Affairs reintroduced AFSPA in areas including Imphal West and East, Bishnupur, Kangpokpi, and Jiribam.
The attack on political leaders’ residences is part of growing discontent over the state’s handling of the ongoing ethnic conflict between the Meitei community and the Kuki community. Over 200 people have lost their lives in the strife-torn state since the violence began over a year ago.
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