Manipur: Protests, Curfew Grip Imphal Valley, Internet Ban Continues
Protests, curfew, and fresh violence keep Manipur on edge days after a deadly attack in Bishnupur district.
IMPHAL- The situation in Manipur remained tense on Thursday as authorities continued to enforce curfew and restrictions following a deadly attack earlier this week that killed two children in Bishnupur district.
Large protest demonstrations were reported across the Imphal Valley, with organisations such as the All Manipur United Clubs’ Organisation (AMUCO) and the Coordinating Committee on Manipur Integrity (COCOMI) leading rallies demanding justice for the victims and accountability from the state government.
Protesters called for the resignation of Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh and State Home Minister Govindas Konthoujam, alleging lapses in security.
Also Read- Assam Polls See 84.42% Turnout, CM Hails Historic Voter Surge
In a related development, a 32-year-old advocate reportedly attempted self-immolation outside Lok Bhavan in Imphal as a form of protest. Security personnel intervened and detained him, preventing serious injury.
Road blockades were set up at multiple locations across the valley, while sporadic clashes between student groups and security forces were reported near government offices.
Separately, a man was shot and injured late on April 8 in a designated buffer zone at Shantipur, between Gamgiphai and Sekmai. Following the incident, the Committee on Tribal Unity (CoTU) called for a 24-hour shutdown in Kangpokpi district.
Also Read- Passport Row: Pawan Khera Moves HC for Anticipatory Bail
The cumulative death toll linked to the recent unrest stands at four, including two children killed in the initial explosion and two civilians who died during subsequent police firing.
Authorities have imposed an indefinite curfew in five districts — Imphal West, Imphal East, Thoubal, Kakching, and Bishnupur — while security forces remain deployed in sensitive areas.
Mobile internet and data services continue to remain suspended for a third consecutive day in these districts, with officials citing the need to curb misinformation. Limited broadband services have been partially restored under monitoring, with restrictions on social media access.
Officials indicated that the investigation into the Bishnupur attack has been handed over to the National Investigation Agency.
The developments come amid continuing tensions in the state, where sporadic incidents of violence have persisted since 2023, raising concerns about law and order and civilian safety.
