Manipur students stage protest in Imphal over alleged excessive use of force during IDP rally

Students in Imphal on November 25 staged a protest condemning the alleged excessive use of force by security personnel during the November 24 demonstration by internally displaced persons (IDPs) at Dolaithabi. 

The protest began around 11 a.m., with students of CC Higher Secondary School marching towards Raj Bhavan to submit a memorandum to the Governor. 

As they approached the Nupi Lal Complex, security personnel allegedly fired two rounds of tear gas, forcing the students to retreat towards the Veterinary Department office near Sanjenthong. Three representatives later proceeded to submit the memorandum.

A student protester said his friend was injured during the November 24 IDP demonstration at Dolaithabi when security forces allegedly used excessive force to disperse the crowd. 

He stated that the IDPs, who have been living in relief camps for more than two and a half years, were protesting for their rights and deserved understanding, not violence. He also condemned the alleged firing of tear gas near Sagolmang Community Health Centre and towards a school bus carrying students.

The memorandum submitted to Raj Bhavan alleged that school students and displaced persons were subjected to lathi charge, while tear gas shells were fired near a school bus and even inside a hospital premises. It stated that several minors were injured, and that firing tear gas around a healthcare facility created panic among patients, doctors, and caretakers, disrupting essential medical services. 

The memorandum said these actions raised serious concerns about the proportionality of the security response against unarmed civilians, especially minors and displaced persons.

The students demanded an impartial inquiry into the November 24 incident, verification of injuries sustained by students, IDPs, and civilians, and clear instructions to security forces to exercise restraint near schools, hospitals, and relief camps. They also sought accountability for personnel involved in firing tear gas near a school bus and financial assistance for injured protesters.

The students further voiced strong objections to the ongoing Sangai Festival, arguing that it was inappropriate to hold such a celebration when thousands of IDPs remained in relief camps with no clarity on their resettlement. They said their protest was a reminder to the government to prioritise the grievances of displaced families.

The rally concluded after security personnel escorted the students back to their school.

Monday’s clash occurred when IDPs from Sajiwa and Sawombung relief camps marched from Pukhao Terapur Community Hall towards their native villages in Ekou, Dolaithabi, and Sadu Yengkhuman. The situation escalated after security forces stopped the rally at barricades near Sadu Yengkhuman, leading to a violent confrontation.