Imphal: Violence is escalating in Manipur as protesters and mobs attacked the private residences of Chief Minister N. Biren Singh, his son-in-law, three ministers, and six MLAs, mostly from the ruling BJP. Security personnel were forced to use tear gas to disperse the crowds. At the time of the attack, the Chief Minister was not at his residence. His office confirmed that both he and his family are safe.
The attacks also targeted homes and Christian churches in various locations. The violence surged after the bodies were recovered, leading to widespread attacks on political leaders' homes in demand for justice.
Police said the residences of Ministers Sapam Ranjan Singh, Leishangthem Susindro Meitei, and Yumnam Khemchand Singh were targeted across various locations. Among the MLAs affected was Rajkumar Imo Singh, son-in-law of Chief Minister N. Biren Singh.
Protesters, including both men and women, also gathered outside the houses of Janata Dal (United) MLA T. Arun of Wangkhei constituency and BJP legislator Karam Shyam of Langthabal. One vehicle outside an MLA's residence in Imphal was torched.
The unrest, marked by widespread road blockades and demonstrations, was sparked by the discovery of the bodies of six women and children believed to have gone missing on November 11 in Jiribam district. The bodies were located near the confluence of the Jiri and Barak rivers along the Manipur-Assam border and taken to Silchar Medical College and Hospital for post-mortem.
Curfews were imposed indefinitely across several districts, including Imphal East, West, Bishnupur, Thoubal, and Kakching to curb escalating tensions. Mobile internet and data services were suspended for two days in seven districts, including Kangpokpi and Churachandpur.
Security forces, including Central Armed Police Force (CAPF), paramilitary personnel, and state police, have been deployed to restore order across the affected areas.
With IANS inputs