Vehicle torched, several injured in Manipur's Bishnupur amid ongoing protests

Tension escalated in Bishnupur district on Tuesday, April 14 following an alleged clash between protesters and security forces, leaving several persons injured and prompting an intensified deployment of personnel in the area.

According to local accounts, unrest broke out in parts of the district when a group of protesters, who had been staging a road blockade along the Tiddim Road, attempted to intercept a vehicle passing through the area. The protesters reportedly suspected that the occupants of the vehicle were armed individuals allegedly linked to Kuki groups. However, there has been no official confirmation regarding the identity of those inside the vehicle.

Reports indicate that an armed vehicle allegedly belonging to Kuki groups was seen passing through Thinungei in Bishnupur District today. Eyewitnesses said the situation turned violent after the occupants allegedly refused to engage with the protesters. The confrontation escalated rapidly, resulting in one vehicle being set on fire, while another reportedly managed to escape from the scene.

Security forces, including both state police and central personnel, were rushed to the spot to contain the situation. Officials resorted to tear gas shelling and, according to reports from the ground, also fired rounds to disperse the crowd as tensions persisted into the evening.

Several protesters sustained injuries during the confrontation, though the exact number remains unconfirmed. Authorities have not yet issued a detailed statement on the sequence of events or the extent of casualties.

The incident comes amid continuing unrest in the district following the recent Tronglaobi incident, which has triggered sustained protests along the Tiddim Road. Protesters have blocked key routes using burning tyres and have stated that demonstrations will continue until justice is delivered in connection with the earlier incident.

The situation in Bishnupur district remains volatile, with security forces maintaining a strong presence to prevent further escalation.