Manipur: Protesters burn effigies of CM, Deputy CM, Home Minister, MP over civilian killings, deteriorating law and order

Residents of Uyumpok in Manipur’s Imphal East district staged a protest against the killing of three people in an attack at Khongban Sunurok, allegedly carried out by suspected Kuki militants. The protesters burned effigies of Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh, Deputy Chief Minister Nemcha Kipgen, Home Minister Govindas Konthoujam and Rajya Sabha MP A Sharda Devi, demanding their resignations over the deteriorating law and order situation.

The protesters raised slogans condemning the killing of civilians and accusing the government of failing to maintain law and order. They called on the chief minister, deputy chief minister, home minister and the Rajya Sabha MP to step down, holding them accountable for the security situation in the state.

Members of the Tangkhul Naga community from neighbouring Khongban Tangkhul village also joined the demonstration.

Following the protest, the demonstrators visited the residence of Kshetrimayum Sushil, one of the three people killed in the attack, and offered condolences to his family. They also expressed solidarity with the bereaved families.

Akhui Zimik, village chief of Khongban Tangkhul, condemned the killings and said such incidents involving the deaths of innocent civilians should not recur.

He said Khongban Tangkhul, Uyumpok and Nongsum were neighbouring villages whose residents had traditionally lived together in harmony and supported one another.

Zimik also called on indigenous communities to unite in confronting what he described as Kuki narco-terrorists.

Commenting on the response of Assam Rifles personnel stationed near the site of the attack, Zimik said their action following the incident was unsatisfactory, alleging that the response was not swift enough.

The protest comes amid continuing tensions in Manipur, where attacks on civilians and concerns over security have triggered demands for stronger action by the authorities.