Fresh violence erupts in Manipur’s Bishnupur; 18 injured, curfew-like restrictions imposed
Imphal: Fresh unrest erupted in Bishnupur district of India’s Manipur state as clashes broke out between protesters and Indian forces, leaving at least 18 people injured and prompting authorities to impose curfew-like restrictions in the district.
According to Kashmir Media Service, the clashes erupted in Thingungei and nearby Ningthoukhong areas in Bishnupur district, where demonstrators confronted Indian forces’ personnel, leading to violent clashes. The troops reportedly used live rounds and tear gas shells to disperse the crowd, injuring at least 18 people, including women. Several vehicles were also set ablaze by protesters during the unrest.
Police said tensions escalated after a security team was obstructed near Thingungei, following the spread of what they described as “misleading and unverified rumours” regarding the identity and purpose of the personnel. Authorities stated that the crowd turned violent, damaging and attempting to torch vehicles linked to the forces, and also tried to detain personnel.
“A mob gathered and stopped the vehicles of the forces. The situation escalated when some members of the crowd turned violent, damaging and setting fire to vehicles associated with the security personnel. There were also attempts to detain personnel,” the statement said. Additional forces were rushed to the area to bring the situation under control, after which tear gas was used to disperse the mob and restore order, it said.
Police confirmed the arrest of four persons in connection with the violence, while efforts are underway to identify others involved in arson, and obstruction of forces’ personnel. Authorities have also warned of strict action against those responsible. A flag march was also conducted in the area.
Meanwhile, the district administration imposed prohibitory orders under Section 163 of the BNSS, restricting the movement of people and banning gatherings in parts of Bishnupur district.
