Manipur: CM Convoy Blocked in Thoubal Amid Protests
Protesters blocked the convoy of Yumnam Khemchand Singh in Thoubal, demanding justice over the killing of two children in the Tronglaobi blast.
IMPHAL— The convoy of Manipur CM Yumnam Khemchand Singh was blocked by protesters on the highway to Thoubal district on Monday, forcing him to abandon his road journey and proceed by helicopter to Wangjing, where he was scheduled to inaugurate a Block Development Officer (BDO) office.
According to officials and local reports, demonstrators gathered along the route, burning tyres and halting traffic as the chief minister’s motorcade approached. The protesters were demanding immediate action in connection with the April 7 blast in Tronglaobi village in Bishnupur district, which killed two young children and injured their mother.
The victims have been identified as five-year-old Oinam Tomthin and his five-month-old sister Oinam Yaisana. The incident has triggered widespread outrage across the Imphal Valley, with repeated protests, torch rallies, and confrontations with security forces in recent weeks.
Also Read- Naga-Kuki Clashes Erupt in Manipur
Visuals circulated by local media showed groups of protesters occupying the road and raising slogans against the state administration. Demonstrators insisted that justice for the victims should take precedence over official events and project inaugurations.
The blockade took place amid an ongoing shutdown called by the Meira Paibi Lup, a prominent women’s organisation, across valley districts. The shutdown has disrupted daily life, with markets, shops, and public transport services largely remaining closed.
Also Read- Manipur Sees Renewed Violence Amid Protests
Following the disruption, the chief minister reportedly travelled by helicopter to Wangjing to complete the scheduled inauguration. No injuries or major escalation were reported in connection with the convoy blockade.
The Tronglaobi blast, which authorities suspect may be linked to militants operating from hill areas, has intensified existing ethnic tensions in the state. Protesters have accused the government of failing to ensure civilian safety and have demanded the arrest of those responsible by April 25.
Also Read- Manipur: Two Killed in Ukhrul Highway Ambush
Recent demonstrations have seen incidents of stone pelting, the use of petrol bombs, and police action including tear gas deployment and arrests. Security restrictions, including curfews and prohibitory orders, remain in force in several parts of the state.
The chief minister has previously described the law-and-order situation as “sensitive but under control” and has appealed for calm, even as calls for accountability and justice continue to grow.
