Protests over Tronglaobi incident intensify across Manipur valley, security forces fire tear gas to disperse crowd

Protests and torch rallies continued across several valley regions of Manipur on Sunday, April 19 with security forces resorting to tear gas to disperse demonstrators in parts of Imphal West and Kakching districts.

The rallies, organised in response to the Tronglaobi killing incident, were reported from areas including Uripok and Koirengei in Imphal West, as well as parts of Kakching district. Protesters took to the streets carrying torches and raising slogans, expressing strong dissatisfaction with what they described as the state government’s failure to ensure the safety of lives and property.

Demonstrators demanded justice for the victims of the Tronglaobi incident and called for swift action against those responsible. They also alleged excessive use of force by central security personnel during the course of crowd control.

Tension escalated in Kakching when security forces attempted to disperse the gathering. Tear gas shells were fired, leading to brief chaos in the area as protesters scattered. No immediate reports of serious injuries were available.

Participants in the rallies reiterated their demand for immediate justice and urged authorities to ensure accountability in the case.

Meanwhile, Manipur Home Minister Govindas Konthoujam appealed to the public to extend cooperation in restoring peace and normalcy in the state. He said the government was making all efforts to identify and apprehend those involved in the Tronglaobi bomb attack.

According to the minister, five cadres of the United Kuki National Army (UKNA), suspected to be linked to the incident, have been arrested so far, and an investigation is currently underway.