Fresh violence in Manipur leaves 2 protesters dead, dozens injured
Imphal: Two persons were killed and over two dozen injured in Indian forces’ firing on protesters in the violence-hit Manipur state of India.
According to Kashmir Media Service, the Indian forces’ personnel fired bullets and tear gas shells on protesters in which two persons died and 30 others were injured in the Kuki majority Churachandpur area of the state.
The casualties were identified as Letlalkhuol Gangte and Thanggunlen Haokip, both residents of Churachandpur, who succumbed to gunshot wounds.
Reportedly, the incident happened when protesters stormed a government compound housing the offices of the police superintendent and district collector. As per reports, the collector’s residence was set ablaze, along with Indian forces’ vehicles parked near the compound.
The protest stemmed from the suspension of a police head constable belonging to the tribal Kuki community. This incident incited outrage among the local populace, leading to the protest outside the police superintendent’s office.
Following this, the state government suspended cellular data services in Churachandpur district for five days to prevent further protests.
As per the reports, the situation is tense in Churachandpur where roads wore a deserted look, today.
The Indigenous Tribal Leaders Forum (ITLF) condemned the suspension of the head constable and called for the immediate departure of police superintendent Shivanand Surve from the district. They attributed responsibility for the violence to Surve, demanding swift action to rectify the situation.
