Lagatar24 Desk
Imphal: Manipur witnessed fresh violence as protests intensified across the valley areas on Sunday, resulting in one death and another injury. A 20-year-old man, identified as K Athouba, was killed when security forces opened fire to disperse crowds in Jiribam district around 11 pm at Babupara.
The unrest saw a mob ransack and torch furniture from local offices of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and Congress, just 500 meters from the Jiribam police station. Tensions continue to escalate, prompting heavy deployment of security forces to maintain order.
Injuries and Curfews
One injured individual has been admitted to a nearby hospital, though their condition remains undisclosed. In response to the violence, curfews have been imposed in Imphal West and East districts, and internet services suspended in seven districts to curb the spread of misinformation and prevent further unrest.
Amit Shah to Hold Crisis Meeting
Union Home Minister Amit Shah has returned to Delhi to chair an emergency meeting with senior officials from the Ministry of Home Affairs, including the Union Home Secretary and the Director of the Intelligence Bureau, as well as representatives from CAPFs and Assam Rifles.
NPP Withdraws Support for Manipur Government
Amid the deteriorating situation, the National People’s Party (NPP) has withdrawn its support for the BJP-led Manipur government, citing its inability to restore normalcy. NPP national president and Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma expressed these concerns in a letter to BJP President JP Nadda, stating, “The Manipur State Government, under the leadership of Shri Biren Singh, has completely failed to resolve the crisis and restore normalcy.”
With the NPP pulling out, the BJP-led alliance in Manipur now faces a weakened majority in the Assembly, signaling diminishing influence for the ruling party.
Police Actions and Arrests
The Manipur Police arrested 23 individuals linked to the mob attacks on government properties. Authorities seized a .32 pistol, seven rounds of SBBL ammunition, and eight mobile phones.
NIA Takes Over Probes
The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has taken charge of three cases, including a gunfight between the CRPF and Kuki insurgents in Jiribam, which resulted in the deaths of 11 Kuki militants. Another case under investigation involves the kidnapping and killing of six individuals.
