Protest Erupts in Imphal: Police Fire Tear Gas as Tensions Escalate
Protests have escalated in Imphal, the capital of Manipur, as police forces fired tear gas to disperse the crowd of students and women demonstrators who attempted to march towards the Raj Bhavan (Governor’s residence) on Tuesday. The protesters are demanding the removal of the state’s police chief and restoration of peace in the conflict-ridden region.
Curfew Imposed in Imphal
In response to the potential threats to law and order, the district administration has imposed an indefinite curfew in Imphal East, Imphal West, and Thoubal districts.
Protesters Defy Curfew
Despite the curfew, a massive gathering of students and Meira Paibis (women torch-bearers) converged at BT Road, Imphal, leading to violent clashes with police. The students had organized a protest rally, presenting a six-point demand to both the Governor and Chief Minister, with a 24-hour ultimatum for action.
Police Respond with Tear Gas
As the ultimatum ended at 2 p.m., the protesters began marching towards the Governor’s bungalow. The police tried to control the crowd, but the protesters pushed forward, escalating the confrontation. With the situation spiraling out of control, the police resorted to firing tear gas and stun bombs to disperse the agitated crowd
.
Injuries and Casualties
More than 50 individuals, including students, were injured in the ensuing chaos and were rushed to RIMS Hospital for treatment. Several others were also reportedly injured, though the exact number of casualties remains uncertain.
Internet Suspended, Curfew Imposed
In the wake of the violence and protests, the Manipur government has suspended internet and broadband services across the state for five days, until September 15. Indefinite curfew has also been imposed in several parts of Manipur.
Chief Minister Holds Emergency Meeting
Chief Minister N. Biren Singh held an emergency meeting on Saturday with MLAs from the ruling coalition, including the BJP, Naga People’s Front, and National People’s Party (NPP), to discuss the situation. Shortly after, the Chief Minister went to Raj Bhavan to brief the Governor on the situation.The protest, which had initially been peaceful, turned violent as irate students began hurling stones at the police. The intense clash, marked by defiant protesters and heavy police response, continued until around 3:30 p.m. when authorities finally managed to regain control of the situation.The sheer size of the gathering, with hundreds of students and Meira Paibis united in their demands, underscores the rising tensions in Imphal as public frustration grows over the government’s handling of the ongoing crisis in Manipur. The violent turn of events highlights the urgency of addressing the students’ demands, as well as the broader instability in the region.