Demonstrators seek justice over recent killings, demand action on displacement and security concerns
Imphal: Security forces in Imphal on Saturday used tear gas to disperse large groups of protesters attempting to march towards the Chief Minister’s office, marking another flashpoint in Manipur’s ongoing unrest.
The demonstrators, largely members of the Meira Paibis and affiliated with the Coordinating Committee on Manipur Integrity (COCOMI), advanced from multiple directions but were halted at key locations, including Khurai Lamlong, Moirangkhom, and near Kangla’s western gate. As tensions escalated and some protesters tried to breach barricades, police intervened with crowd-control measures.
Subsequently, a delegation from COCOMI was permitted to meet Chief Minister Y. Khemchand Singh and submit a memorandum outlining their demands. The organisation called for immediate action against what it described as a “proxy war,” a crackdown on alleged narco-terror activities, and justice in recent incidents, including the April 7 blast in Tronglaobi and the April 18 ambush near TM Kasom. They also sought a judicial probe into the CRPF firing that reportedly killed three individuals.
In addition, the group pressed for the rehabilitation of internally displaced persons and the scrapping of the Suspension of Operations agreement with Kuki militant groups.
COCOMI convenor Y.K. Dhiren criticised the government’s response, stating that despite repeated protests, “no meaningful action” has been taken. He further indicated that the agitation could intensify if demands remain unaddressed.
Also Read: Iran’s FM Araghchi Holds Talks with Pakistan Army Chief as Mediation Efforts Continue
