Imphal: Violence erupted between Kuki protesters and security forces on the first day of the Manipur government's decision to resume public movement across the state. Security forces escorted civilian buses amid protests by Kuki tribes.
Notably, protesters wanted that there should not be any free movement until their demands were met. Videos of the clash between security forces and Kuki protesters also surfaced online. Several protesters also reportedly sustained injuries in the clashes.
According to a report by PTI, a bus of the Manipur state transport was attacked in Kangpokpi. Inter-district bus services resumed from Imphal to hill areas since ethnic strife broke out in the northeastern state two years ago.
Visuals Of Clashes Between Security Forces And Kuki Protesters:
The attack on the Senapati district-bound bus took place as the passenger vehicle was pelted with stones by a mob in Kagpokpi district's Gamgiphai area, officials said as reported by the news agency.
Security forces reportedly fired tear gas shells and baton-charged the mob, leading to injuries to a few demonstrators.
The buses to the hill districts of Churachandpur and Senapati were flagged off from Imphal airport around 10 am without any passengers. A large convoy of central forces, including army personnel, escorted the vehicles, they said. The Churachandpur-bound bus reached Kangvai after crossing the Bishnupur district without any hindrance, the officials said.
The bus destined for Senapati district via Kangpokpi did not face any obstruction or blockade till Kanglatongbi in Imphal West district, they added.
The bus services resumed inter-district bus services resumed after Union Home Minister Amit Shah had recently directed security forces to ensure free movement of people on all routes in Manipur from March 8 and also called for strict action against those creating obstructions following the President's Rule in the state.
The northeastern state has been witnessing ethnic violence since May 2023 between the Kuki and Meitei communities.
