Guwahati: Security forces in Manipur’s Imphal West dispersed a large rally at Singjamei on Thursday, April 16, after it turned tense over the April 7 violence in Bishnupur district’s Tronglaobi village, where a suspected militant attack killed two children and left their mother critically injured.
The victims were a five-year-old boy and his five-month-old sister. Locals claimed that the blast was caused by an explosive projectile, suspected to have been launched from distant hill regions located more than three kilometres away, reflecting ongoing tension along the hill–valley boundary near Churachandpur.
The protest march, organised by the All Manipur United Clubs’ Organisation (AMUCO) and other groups, began in Lilong and moved towards Singjamei, with participants raising slogans such as “Go back Central Force” and “Long live Manipur,” demanding action against suspected Kuki militants linked to the attack.
Security arrangements were reinforced earlier in the day in sensitive localities such as Kakwa and Singjamei, with state police and central forces positioned to prevent any potential disturbance.
The rally was stopped at Singjamei, where it escalated into a confrontation between protesters and security personnel.
Police used tear gas to disperse the crowd after the situation turned violent. Several people were injured, and the protest continued for hours before being brought under control.
The demonstration came after a meeting between the state government and a Joint Action Committee (JAC) formed after the attack, which ended without a final resolution.
The meeting, held at the official residence of Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh, was attended by ministers, legislators, JAC members, and the victims’ families.
The JAC submitted demands including action against suspected militant groups, relocation of central forces from valley areas to hill regions, a judicial inquiry into the role of security personnel, and compensation and protection for affected families.
JAC representative Moirangthem Gouro said the government had responded positively to their concerns, though several issues remained unresolved, and dialogue would continue.
The group also demanded the swift arrest of those involved in the killings and said the Tiddim Road blockade would continue until their demands are met.
The chief minister expressed condolences over the incident, said the case is under close examination, and assured strict action against those responsible, reaffirming the government’s commitment to justice.