Shocking Mob Fury: Central Forces Deployment Sparks Chaos in Kangpokpi, Leaves Several Injured
Manipur Violence Escalates: Attack on Kangpokpi SP Office
A significant escalation in violence occurred in Manipur on Friday evening as a mob attacked the Superintendent of Police (SP) office in Kangpokpi district. The unrest is rooted in local protests against the ongoing deployment of central forces in Saibol village, at the Imphal East district border. This incident was reportedly a backlash against security forces’ alleged baton charge on women on December 31, which ignited fury among Kuki organizations.
The violent attack left several individuals injured, including Kangpokpi SP M Prabhakar, police personnel, and protesters, as reported by PTI. The mob hurled stones, striking SP Prabhakar on the forehead, leading to his hospitalization. Vehicles within the SP office premises were also damaged. In response, additional central forces were dispatched to restore order in the area.
Local reports from NDTV highlighted the presence of armed men wielding automatic weapons on the highway in Kangpokpi. Visuals circulating on social media supported these claims, raising concerns over the tension in the region.
The unrest is intertwined with wider ethnic violence between the Meitei and Kuki communities, which has resulted in over 250 fatalities and displaced thousands since May 2023. Earlier in the day, large gatherings of protesters assembled at the SP’s office, demanding central forces’ withdrawal from Saibol village, highlighting the underlying tension and distrust toward forces like the BSF and CRPF.
The situation intensified following recent security operations in Saibol, sparked by gunfights that injured four individuals, including a police officer. In retaliation, the Committee on Tribal Unity (COTU) of Kangpokpi imposed an indefinite economic blockade on National Highway 2—a critical link between Imphal and Dimapur—along with a 24-hour district shutdown.
The December 31 incident saw police use tear gas on women attempting to block the movement of state and central forces, further exacerbating the volatile situation. The combined pressures continue to challenge peace efforts in the troubled region.
Original Source: https://news.abplive.com/news/india/manipur-violence-news-mob-attacks-sp-office-in-kangpokpi-over-deployment-of-central-forces-several-injured-1741678
Category : India
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Publish Date: 2025-01-03 22:22:00
