Manipur violence: One killed, 25 injured as protesters clash with security forces on first day of ‘free movement’

Manipur: One person was killed and 25 others suffered injuries in clashes between Kuki demonstrators and security forces on the first day of the free movement of people on all roads in Manipur on Saturday.

A bus of the Manipur state transport was attacked in Kangpokpi.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah had announced 'free movement' in strife-torn northeastern state from March 8, following which the inter-district bus services resumed today.

The incident took place during the resumption of inter-district bus services from Imphal to hill areas, officials said.

The deceased has been identified as 30-year-old Lalgouthang Singsit, reported PTI.  He received bullet injuries during the clashes at Keithelmanbi and died on the way to hospital.

The protesters, including women, injured during the clashes with security forces at Gamgiphai, Motbung and Keithelmanbi.

Protesters also blocked NH-2 (Imphal-Dimapur highway) and burned tyres to obstruct movement of government vehicles.

The attack on the Senapati district-bound bus occurred when the passenger vehicle was pelted with stones by a mob in Kagpokpi district's Gamgiphai area, reported PTI quoting official.

According to some reports, clashes have been reported from several Kuki-dominated areas.

Several videos of protesters clash with the security forces and violence have gone viral on social media platforms.

Officials said that security forces fired tear gas shells and baton-charged the mob, leading to injuries to a few demonstrators.

— At around 10 am, the buses to the hill districts of Churachandpur and Senapati were flagged off from Imphal airport.

— A large convoy of central forces, including army personnel, escorted the vehicles.

— The Churachandpur-bound bus reached Kangvai after crossing the Bishnupur district without any hindrance.

— The bus did not face any obstruction or blockade till Kanglatongbi in Imphal West district.

Over a week ago, Amit Shah chaired a meeting to review the security situation of Manipur and also called for strict action against those creating obstructions.

Shah said the Centre remains fully committed to restoring lasting peace in the state and is providing all necessary assistance in this regard.

Over 250 people have lost their lives in the violence.

On February 13, the President's rule was imposed in Manipur after N Biren Singh resigned as chief minister.

Over 250 people have lost their lives in the violence in the state which has been witnessing ethnic violence since May 2023.