One protester was killed, and 25 others, including women, were injured during violent clashes between Kuki demonstrators and security forces in Manipur’s Kangpokpi district on Saturday, officials said.
Clashes Over Free Movement Directive
The deceased has been identified as 30-year-old Lalgouthang Singsit, who suffered bullet injuries during the clashes at Keithelmanbi and died while being transported to the hospital, police reported.
At least 25 protesters sustained various injuries in clashes that erupted in Gamgiphai, Motbung, and Keithelmanbi. They were admitted to a nearby public health centre for treatment.
The violence broke out after security forces fired tear gas to disperse demonstrators opposing Union Home Minister Amit Shah’s directive allowing free movement across the state.
Protesters Set Vehicles on Fire, Block NH-2
The situation escalated as protesters set private vehicles on fire and attempted to stop a state transport bus traveling from Imphal to Senapati district. Demonstrators also blocked National Highway-2 and burned tyres to prevent government vehicles from passing.
The protest was also directed against a peace march organized by the Federation of Civil Society (FOCS), a Meitei organization. A convoy of over 10 vehicles was stopped by security forces at Sekmai before reaching Kangpokpi district.
A police official stated, “We are just following orders. We have been told to stop the march. If they want to go, they can use state buses arranged by the government.” However, FOCS members objected, citing Amit Shah’s directive allowing free movement from Saturday.
Kuki-Zo Volunteers Demand Separate Administration
Meanwhile, a video allegedly released by the Kuki-Zo village volunteers group from an undisclosed location rejected the Indian government’s decision on free movement and demanded a separate administration.
“Any attempt to enter our areas will be met with strong resistance. No free movement before a separate administration,” a masked volunteer was heard saying in the video.
The authenticity of the video has not been independently verified.
Sources By Agencies
