A violent mob stormed the Superintendent of Police’s office in Kangpokpi district, Manipur, on Friday evening, expressing anger over the officer’s alleged inaction in withdrawing central forces from Saibol village near Imphal East district, according to officials.
The incident left several individuals injured. Kuki organizations have been protesting since a reported baton charge on women by security forces on December 31 in Saibol village, which heightened tensions in the area.
The protestors hurled stones and other objects at the SP’s office, voicing their discontent over the continued presence of central forces, including the BSF and CRPF, in the village, as per a report by PTI. Additionally, several police vehicles parked inside the SP office compound were damaged during the attack.
Deputy Commissioner’s Office Attacked in Kangpokpi
Fresh violence broke out in Kangpokpi town, Manipur, on Friday, leading to an attack on the Deputy Commissioner’s office. During the incident, a police official was injured.
A large group of people marched toward the administrative headquarters in Kangpokpi and targeted the Deputy Commissioner’s office. According to the police, the crowd appeared angry and caused significant damage to the premises.
This incident has heightened tensions in the area, which is largely populated by Kuki and other tribal communities. The situation in Kangpokpi remains very tense, with the possibility of further unrest. Authorities are monitoring the situation closely to restore peace and prevent additional violence.
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Protest Erupts in Kangpokpi
Three days ago, a major protest took place in the Saibol area of Kangpokpi district, involving women from the Kuki community. They were protesting the presence of security forces in their area after a recent gunfight had occurred there.
The protest saw large groups of women from nearby villages gathering together to stop the operations of joint security forces. These forces included the Border Security Force (BSF), the Indian Army, and the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF). The women were upset because they did not agree with the security measures being taken in their region.
This protest happened after a security operation on December 29, when the Army, CRPF, and BSF worked together to remove armed militants from the area. During this operation, they cleared out militant hideouts and destroyed bunkers that the militants had been using.
The fresh violence and protest came just days after the Chief Minister of Manipur, N Biren Singh, apologized to the people of the state. He expressed regret over the ongoing ethnic violence that has been happening since May 2023. He also called on the people to “forgive and forget” the painful events of the past in an effort to bring peace and move forward.
Manipur CM N Biren Singh Assures Peace
During a press conference in Imphal, Chief Minister N Biren Singh, who has faced criticism from the opposition for his response to the ongoing violence, stated that peace was gradually being restored in Manipur.
Since May 3, 2023, the state has been plagued by sporadic violence between the majority Meitei community and the Kukis, stemming from disputes over quotas and economic benefits. The violence has resulted in over 200 deaths and displaced thousands of people.
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FAQs
Q.1. What led to the violent protests in Kangpokpi, Manipur?
Ans. The protests were triggered by the Kuki community’s anger over the alleged inaction of the Superintendent of Police in withdrawing central forces from Saibol village after a recent gunfight.
Q.2. What happened during the attack on the Superintendent of Police’s office?
Ans. A mob stormed the SP’s office, injuring several individuals and damaging police vehicles while protesting the continued presence of BSF and CRPF forces in the region.
Q.3. Why are the Kuki organizations protesting in Saibol village?
Ans. The protests began after security forces reportedly used batons on women during a December 31 incident in Saibol, which intensified tensions in the area.
Q.4. What are the causes behind the ongoing violence in Manipur?
Ans. The violence, since May 2023, stems from disputes between the Meitei and Kuki communities, primarily over quotas and economic benefits, leading to over 200 deaths.
Q.5. What is the current situation in Kangpokpi and Manipur?
Ans. The situation in Kangpokpi remains tense, with continuous unrest and violence. Authorities are working to restore peace and prevent further conflict.
