Imphal: Tension prevailed in parts of Imphal East on April 17 after security forces fired tear gas shells to disperse a torch rally at Khurai Lamlong amid continuing unrest in Manipur.
The rally was organised by the All Manipur United Clubs’ Organisation along with other like-minded groups as part of ongoing protests following recent incidents of violence in the state. A large number of women protesters from different areas of Imphal East marched towards Khurai Lamlong Bazaar, raising slogans against central security forces and asserting their resolve to “protect their land.”
Security deployment had been strengthened in the area ahead of the rally, with state and central forces stationed at key points and barricades erected to prevent protesters from moving beyond designated zones. A brief scuffle broke out when protesters attempted to breach the barricades, following which security personnel used tear gas to bring the situation under control.
The protests form part of a wider agitation that has intensified in the wake of the recent violence in the state, including the attack at Tronglaobi in Bishnupur district in which two children were killed and their mother injured in a bomb explosion. The incident has triggered widespread public anger across the valley.
In recent days, protests have included sit-in demonstrations during the day and torch rallies at night across multiple locations. A similar rally on Thursday, which began from Lilong and proceeded towards Singjamei, had also turned violent.
Authorities are continuing to monitor the situation closely as sporadic clashes and tensions persist in several protest-hit areas.