Normalcy in Manipur Disrupted: 1 Killed, 40 Injured in Fresh Violence Between Kukis and Security Forces | Top Points

Imphal: A fresh wave of violence has gripped Manipur ’s Kangpokpi district, with clashes between Kuki demonstrators and security forces turning deadly on Saturday. One protester was killed, and more than 40 people, including security personnel, sustained injuries as tensions flared over the Union Home Ministry’s directive allowing free movement across the state.  

Tension Over Free Movement Directive

The unrest began when Kuki protesters took to the streets, opposing Union Home Minister Amit Shah ’s order that permits free movement across Manipur. As the agitation intensified, police resorted to tear gas shelling to disperse the crowd. However, instead of backing down, the demonstrators retaliated, leading to violent confrontations in multiple locations, including Gamgiphai, Motbung, and Keithelmanbi.  

Amid the growing unrest, the Kuki Zo Council called for an indefinite shutdown in all Kuki-dominated areas starting from Saturday midnight. In a strongly worded statement, the council warned that the central government must address the grievances of the Kuki community to prevent further escalation. "The government needs to rethink its approach and take concrete steps to ensure public safety. Failure to do so will only fuel more unrest," the statement read.  

READ MORE: Kuki-Zo Protests Turn Violent In Manipur: 1 Protester Dead, 27 Security Personnel Injured During Clash | Republic World

One Protester Killed, Dozens Injured

The deceased protester has been identified as 30-year-old Lalgouthang Singsit. He suffered bullet injuries and succumbed to his wounds while being taken to the hospital, according to police sources.  

The clashes left several people injured, with at least 16 protesters admitted to nearby public health centers for treatment. However, unofficial estimates put the civilian injury count at over 23. The violence wasn’t one-sided, as at least 27 security personnel also sustained injuries while trying to control the situation.  

Violence Escalates with Arson and Firing 

Following the initial confrontation, tensions spiraled further when protesters set ablaze private vehicles and attempted to stop a state transport bus traveling from Imphal to Senapati. Authorities reported incidents of stone pelting, forcing security forces to intervene. The situation worsened when, according to police, some agitators opened fire, prompting retaliatory action from security personnel.  

In an official statement, Manipur Police claimed that forces exercised maximum restraint while tackling the violent mob. "Security forces used minimum force to control the anti-social elements, including armed miscreants who fired from within the protesters. Despite this, one protester succumbed to injuries, and several others were wounded," the statement read.  

How the Clashes Started  

According to Manipur Police, the violence erupted when a state transport bus travelling along the Imphal-Kangpokpi-Senapati route was attacked by a mob at Gamgiphai. Protesters allegedly pelted stones at the bus, prompting security forces to intervene. What started as a minor confrontation quickly escalated into large-scale clashes, with police firing tear gas to disperse the crowd.  

Kuki Zo Council’s Warning  

In its statement, the Kuki Zo Council said it could not guarantee the free movement of Meiteis through buffer zones and would not be held responsible for any "unfortunate incidents" that may occur. The council urged the government to reconsider its policies to prevent further deterioration of the situation. The indefinite shutdown imposed by the Kuki Zo Council is expected to further disrupt daily life, while both communities brace for what may come next.