Clashes erupt in Imphal rally, several injured as protesters march toward CM residence
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Several people were injured after clashes broke out across Imphal on Saturday during a rally organised by the Coordinating Committee on Manipur Integrity (COCOMI).
The march began around 1 pm from eight locations, with protesters planning to converge at the official residence of Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh. Tensions escalated at multiple points as security forces attempted to stop the advancing crowds.
At the overbridge area in central Imphal, police reportedly gave protesters 10 minutes to disperse, but they refused, leading to clashes. Incidents of mob violence were also reported from Ima Keithel and Alu Gali market areas.
Security forces fired tear gas shells to disperse the crowds, and several protesters were detained. Authorities also recovered slings and catapults from individuals allegedly hiding in the Ima Keithel area.
Normal life in the city was disrupted, with markets shutting down from 1 pm.
COCOMI said the rally was aimed at seeking answers from the government on issues including alleged proxy war, narco-terrorism, recent killings, a judicial inquiry into CRPF firing that left three people dead, resettlement of internally displaced persons, and scrapping of the suspension of operations agreement with Kuki insurgents.
COCOMI spokesperson Nahakpam Shanta said the protest reflected public anger over recent incidents and developments since May 2023. He said the group has repeatedly raised demands, including action against alleged narco-terrorism and justice for victims of attacks such as the Tronglaobi incident and a highway ambush in Ukhrul.
Shanta added that a memorandum would be submitted to the government, alleging that assurances on resettlement of displaced persons remain unfulfilled and that no clear action-taken report has been provided despite multiple representations.
A protester, Ajit Singh, said the agitation was a demand for justice, citing loss of lives and property and questioning the response of authorities.