Imphal: Security forces fired tear gas shells on Sunday to disperse demonstrators during a rally organised by the Campaign for Just and Fair Delimitation (JFD) near the Palace Gate, also known as the Konung Mamang traffic point, in Imphal East. Several protesters, most of them women, were reportedly injured in the ensuing confrontation.
The situation turned tense after the demonstrators were allegedly denied a meeting with Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand. The rally began at the Citizen Club in Soibam Leikai, with participants raising three key demands — suspension of the Census process until the National Register of Citizens (NRC) is implemented, postponement of Census activities until internally displaced persons (IDPs) are rehabilitated, and adoption of 1951 as the base year for the NRC.
The protesters proceeded towards the Konung Mamang traffic point seeking to meet the Chief Minister and submit their memorandum. Security personnel detained several participants as the procession reached the area, leading to a confrontation between the demonstrators and law enforcement personnel.
Police subsequently used tear gas to disperse the crowd. However, the protesters remained at the site despite the security measures and the Chief Minister’s refusal to meet them. Organisers said the agitation would continue until the government provides an official assurance on their demands.
The JFD has also appealed to members of the public to join the movement and support its demands.
Sumati Sougrakpam, convenor of the JFD Women’s Wing, criticised the government’s response, describing the Chief Minister’s refusal to meet the delegation or receive their memorandum as unfortunate.
She said the campaign was aimed at protecting the interests of Manipur and urged the state government to address the demands raised by the protesters.