Manipur: Protest Turns Violent, Vehicle Set Ablaze, 18 Injured in Fresh Violence Erupts in Bishnupur
At least 18 injured as protests turn violent in Bishnupur; curfew tightened and internet suspended amid escalating tensions.
BISHNUPUR — Fresh violence broke out in Bishnupur district on Tuesday as clashes along Tiddim Road left at least 18 people injured and led to the burning of a vehicle, underscoring ongoing tensions in the region. Bishnupur Apunba Meira Paibi has announced a total shutdown starting tomorrow, April 15, in connection with the Tronglaobi incident and the CRPF firing.
According to local reports, the unrest began in the morning when a group of protesters blocked the highway at Bishnupur Bazar. The situation escalated after the crowd intercepted a vehicle on suspicion that it was transporting armed individuals or supplies linked to militant groups.
Despite the presence of security personnel, the crowd reportedly overpowered local police and set the vehicle on fire. In response, security forces used tear gas shells and rubber bullets to disperse the protesters, resulting in a prolonged standoff lasting several hours.
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Medical officials at Bishnupur District Hospital confirmed that at least 18 individuals were admitted with injuries. Most injuries were attributed to the crowd control measures, while two persons were reported to be in critical condition due to blunt force trauma sustained during the initial confrontation.
Following the escalation, authorities tightened the existing curfew and extended the suspension of mobile internet services across five valley districts, including Bishnupur, citing concerns over the spread of potentially inflammatory content.
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Additional personnel from the Assam Rifles and the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) were deployed along Tiddim Road to reinforce security and prevent further movement of mobs toward sensitive areas.
By Tuesday evening, the burnt vehicle had been removed from the site, though the area remained under heavy security deployment.
Meanwhile, local groups, including members of the Meira Paibi, called for a shutdown in the district on Wednesday to protest against the use of force by security personnel during the clashes.
The situation continues to remain tense, with authorities maintaining heightened vigilance across the district.
