Kuki-Zo Protests Turn Violent In Manipur: 1 Protester Dead, 27 Security Personnel Injured During Clash

Kangpokpi: Fresh violence erupted in Manipur 's Kangpokpi district leaving one protester dead and 27 security personnel injured. The clashes occurred as locals defied Union Home Minister Amit Shah 's directive for the free movement of all vehicles across Manipur, which came into effect from Saturday. The officials stated that the situation in Kangpokpi, particularly along National Highway 2, remains volatile. The protesters, largely from the Kuki-Zo community, blocked the Imphal-Dimapur highway by burning tyres, prompting security forces to fire tear gas shells in an attempt to disperse the crowd. However, the situation quickly spiralled out of control as protesters began setting fire to private vehicles and attempted to stop a state transport bus en route to Senapati district.

The local authorities have deployed additional forces in the area in a bid to restore order. However, the underlying tensions between the Kuki-Zo and Meitei communities remain unresolved, sparking fears of further violence.

According to the reports, the deceased, identified as 30-year-old Lalgouthang Singsit, received bullet injuries during the clashes at Keithelmanbi leading and died on the way to a hospital. On the other hand, at least 27 security personnel and around 25 other protesters sustained injuries during the clashes at Gamgiphai, Motbung, and Keithelmanbi. All the injured victims were admitted to a nearby public health centre for treatment.

Tensions Simmer In Region

According to the information, the clashes erupted after police fired tear gas to disperse protesters opposing Union Home Minister Amit Shah's directive allowing free movement across the state. The situation worsened when protesters set fire to private vehicles, attempted to stop a state transport bus, and blocked the Imphal-Dimapur highway. The protest was also directed against a peace march by the Federation of Civil Society (FOCS), a Meitei organisation.

Also Read | State Transport Bus Attacked in Kangpokpi Hours After Public Travel Resumed in Manipur

The current unrest in Manipur is not an isolated incident. The state has witnessed numerous clashes between the Kuki-Zo and Meitei communities in recent years. In August 2023, a march led by Meira Paibi leader Noutuneshwari into Kuki territory sparked violence, while a similar march by the COCOMI in September 2023 met with resistance from Kuki-Zo protesters.

The Kuki-Zo community has long demanded greater autonomy and recognition of their rights. However, their efforts have been met with resistance from the Meitei-dominated state government. The current impasse has raised concerns about the ability of the authorities to address the underlying issues driving the conflict.