Security forces used tear gas to disperse a large torch rally at Singjamei in Manipur’s Imphal West district on Thursday after the protest over the April 7 Tronglaobi bomb attack turned violent, leaving several people injured, officials said.
The rally was organised in protest against the suspected militant attack in Bishnupur district’s Tronglaobi village, in which two children were killed and their mother critically injured. Locals have demanded swift arrest of those responsible and stronger action against suspected militant groups.
The march, organised by the All Manipur United Clubs’ Organisation (AMUCO) and other groups, began at Lilong and proceeded towards Singjamei, with participants raising slogans such as “Go back Central Force” and “Long live Manipur,” demanding accountability in the case.
Officials said security arrangements had been tightened in sensitive areas including Kakwa and Singjamei ahead of the protest, with state police and central forces deployed to prevent any untoward incident. However, the rally was stopped at Singjamei, where it escalated into a confrontation between protesters and security personnel.
As tensions rose, security forces fired tear gas shells to disperse the crowd after some protesters allegedly turned violent. Several participants were injured in the clashes, and the situation continued for hours before being brought under control.
Also read: Manipur: NIA arrests 5 in Bishnupur blast that killed 2 children
The protest was linked to growing public anger following the April 7 attack in Tronglaobi village, where a suspected militant strike killed a five-year-old boy and his five-month-old sister and left their mother critically injured. Locals have alleged that the attack involved an explosive projectile fired from distant hill areas across the valley-hill boundary.
The demonstration came after a meeting between the state government and a Joint Action Committee (JAC) formed in the aftermath of the attack. The meeting, held at the official residence of Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh, included ministers, legislators, JAC members and victims’ families, but ended without a final resolution.
The JAC has demanded action against suspected militant groups, relocation of central forces from valley areas to hill regions, a judicial inquiry into alleged security lapses, and compensation and protection for affected families.
JAC representative Moirangthem Gouro said the government had responded positively to some concerns but key issues remained unresolved, adding that dialogue would continue. The group also said the Tiddim Road blockade would continue until their demands are met.
The chief minister expressed condolences over the incident, stating that the case is under close examination and assured strict action against those responsible, while reaffirming the government’s commitment to justice.
Follow us
