Torch rally halted in Imphal after scuffle, teargas used to disperse protesters
Imphal: Tensions escalated in Manipur’s Imphal West after a rally, organised in connection with the Tronglaobi incident, was stopped by Indian forces at Singjamei.
According to Kashmir Media Service, the rally was triggered by the April 7 attack in Tronglaobi village of Bishnupur district, where two young siblings were killed and their mother was left seriously injured. Reportedly, a projectile, believed to be a rocket, struck a civilian house in Moirang Tronglaobi, causing a powerful explosion.
The victims were identified as a five-year-old boy and his five-month-old sister. Locals said the projectile was fired from nearby hill slopes more than three kilometres away, highlighting ongoing tensions along the hill-valley fringe bordering Churachandpur district.
The rally began from Lilong and moved towards Singjamei, drawing a significant number of participants under the aegis of the All Manipur United Clubs’ Organisation (AMUCO), with support from several other groups. Protesters raised slogans including “Go back Central Force” and “Long live Manipur”.
The rally was halted at Singjamei, leading to a confrontation between demonstrators and security personnel.
Officials used teargas shells to disperse the crowd after the situation turned volatile. Several protesters reportedly sustained injuries during the clash.
