At least two people died and 25 were left injured in clashes between security forces and protestors in Manipur's Churachandpur district on Friday.
The violence erupted after hundreds gathered to protest the suspension of a head constable, Siamlalpaul, following a controversial selfie with armed individuals, which was considered by the police as an act of misconduct.
The incident unfolded when a large crowd, primarily from the Kuki-Zo tribes, besieged the Superintendent of Police office demanding Siamlalpaul's reinstatement.
The anger escalated, leading to stone-pelting and ultimately, a clash with security forces. Tear gas and gunfire were used to disperse the mob, resulting in casualties and injuries.
The suspension stemmed from a viral video showing Siamlalpaul alongside armed men in a hilltop bunker. While authorities claim this warrants a departmental inquiry, protestors allege unfair targeting and demand his return. This incident adds fuel to existing tensions between the Kuki-Zo tribes and the Meiteis, further complicating the state's volatile ethnic landscape.
The Kuki-Zo civil society group ITLF blames the district police chief for the violence, citing earlier instances where police allegedly collaborated with armed groups against their communities.
They demand action against such officers. Meanwhile, the police deny these allegations and point towards involvement of Kuki-Zo insurgents in supporting "village defence volunteers."
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