Manipur Police have raised concerns over the increasing use of sophisticated weapons by protesters to target security personnel during recent agitations.
Addressing the media on Sunday, DIG (Range 1) N Herojit Singh urged demonstrators to refrain from employing such dangerous methods and emphasised the need for restraint.
"We want to remind the public that the police department's duty is to maintain law and order and respond to armed attacks by miscreants. We have sustained multiple casualties during these challenging times," Singh stated.
He highlighted the disturbing shift in protest tactics, noting that demonstrators have replaced traditional forms of protest with lethal methods targeting security forces.
"In recent agitations, demonstrators have engaged in stone pelting, shooting iron pieces from slingshots, firing tear gas shells, and using automatic firearms," the DIG said.
Singh revealed that there is evidence of automatic weapons being fired during protests.
"At Khabeisoi, automatic weapon fire recently injured an officer in-charge of Imphal East Commando and another personnel. Similarly, in Kakwa, Imphal West district, firing left marks on our vehicles," he added.
Despite these challenges, Singh urged protesters to show restraint.
"Police forces use maximum restraint when dealing with protesters. Although there has been no retaliation from police in response to automatic weapon fire, we have reports of protesters being injured when we use minimal, non-lethal anti-riot measures," he said.
The DIG also raised concerns about the involvement of non-local agitators.
"During protests, we have detained people from outside the localities. We urge people to use democratic and non-violent methods for their demands. Protests aimed at attacking the police should cease immediately," Singh said.
Singh also warned against the live coverage of protests, which he said could incite others to join in. He stressed that maintaining law and order is crucial for the functioning of society.
"If conventional methods fail and alternative measures are used, it will be unfortunate for everyone," he added.
SP Imphal West Ksh Shivakanta Singh echoed these sentiments, calling for cooperation from the public.
"We have seen situations where locals worked with the police to prevent violence. We urge community elders to help restrain those who attend protests under the influence of alcohol and engage in violent behaviour," he said.
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