Protest Rally in Imphal West Ends Amid Scuffle, Tear Gas Fired

Tensions escalated in Imphal West district on April 16 after a large torch rally linked to the Tronglaobi killings was stopped by security forces at Singjamei, leading to a scuffle and the use of tear gas.

Background: Tronglaobi Tragedy

The protest was triggered by the April 7 attack in Bishnupur district, where:

• A powerful explosion struck a civilian home in Tronglaobi

• A 5-year-old boy and his 5-month-old sister were killed

• Their mother was seriously injured

Locals alleged that a projectile, possibly fired from nearby hill areas bordering Churachandpur district, caused the blast.

Rally and Confrontation

• The torch rally began from Lilong and moved toward Singjamei

• Organised under the All Manipur United Clubs’ Organisation, it drew large participation

• Protesters raised slogans such as “Go back Central Force” and demanded action against suspected militants

Security forces, already deployed in sensitive areas like Kakwa and Singjamei, halted the rally, leading to:

• A heated confrontation between protesters and personnel

• Tear gas shells being fired to disperse the crowd

• Several protesters reportedly injured during the clash

Ongoing Protests and Demands

The agitation followed a meeting between the government and a Joint Action Committee (JAC), which ended without a final agreement.

Key demands by the JAC include:

• Immediate arrest of those responsible for the killings

• A judicial inquiry into the incident

• Military action against suspected militant groups

• Redeployment of central forces

• Compensation and protection for victims’ families

The committee has also warned of continued protests, including a blockade along Tiddim Road, until their demands are met.

Government Response

Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh expressed deep sorrow over the incident and assured:

• A serious and thorough investigation

• Strict action against those responsible

• Commitment to justice and restoring normalcy

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The situation remains tense, with public anger continuing to mount over the killings and the broader security concerns in Manipur.