Protest Rally Turns Tense In Imphal, Tear Gas Fired | What Were Their Demands

Imphal: Tension flared in Imphal as security forces fired tear gas to disperse protesters who were taking out a rally towards the Chief Minister’s residence on Saturday. The situation escalated during the protest march.

What Was The Plan

The rally was organised by the Coordinating Committee on Manipur Integrity (COCOMI) in Imphal on Saturday. However, clashes broke out between the protesters and security forces, which in turn prompted the police to use tear gas.

The protests kicked off at around 1 pm, as people started assembling at various locations across the valley districts. These reportedly included Lamlong Bazar, Lamboi Khongnangkhong, Kakwa Keithel, Tiddim Ground, Hao Ground and Oriental College. Several protesters also joined in from Keishamthong, Wangoi and Khangemballi. The plan was to converge and marched towards Tiddim Road, towards the Chief Minister’s residence in order to submit a memorandum.

What Were Their Demands

The memorandum outlined six key demands which included restoration of peace and normalcy, ensuring civilian safety, action against those responsible for recent violence, and safeguarding Manipur’s territorial integrity.

How Did The Situation Deteriorate

Tensions flared as the rally moved forward, which led to a face-off between protesters and the police. Security forces resorted to firing tear gas shells at several points to disperse the crowd and restore order.

The situation remained tense around Khwairamband Ima Keithel, where a large number of demonstrators had assembled, waiting for updates from their representatives who had gone to meet Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh at his residence.

Another sizable crowd was also reported near Johnstone School, adding to the volatile atmosphere.

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