Guwahati: A torchlight march held late at night in Sagolband, Imphal West, turned tense on Saturday, April 18, after security forces used tear gas to disperse a gathering demanding accountability for the deaths in Tronglaobi.
The protest was part of a continuing series of public demonstrations across Manipur. A large number of participants moved through the Sagolband area holding torches, shouting slogans and accusing authorities of failing to protect ordinary citizens.
The situation worsened when security personnel resorted to repeated tear gas firing. The smoke spread heavily through the locality, creating confusion and panic, with residents rushing inside their homes as visibility dropped sharply.
Public resentment has been building since the April 7 attack at Moirang Tronglaobi village in Bishnupur district. In that incident, suspected militants launched a rocket-type explosive at a residential house.
The blast resulted in the death of two children, a five-year-old boy and his five-month-old sister, while their mother sustained serious injuries. The explosion also caused major damage to the house and drew villagers to the scene immediately after the incident.
Those involved in the protest alleged that security arrangements have repeatedly failed to prevent violence despite prolonged instability.
The National Investigation Agency is handling the investigation into the Tronglaobi blast. Officials also confirmed that five individuals suspected of involvement with the United Kuki National Army have been taken into custody in connection with the case.