Imphal: Tensions prevailed across Manipur on Sunday as protests continued for the sixth consecutive day following the killing of two children in a bomb attack at Tronglaobi Awang Leikai in Bishnupur district, and the subsequent deaths of three civilians in firing by security forces during demonstrations that followed the incident.In Imphal East district, hundreds of demonstrators, mostly women, gathered at Lamlong Bazar, forming a human chain across key roads. Holding placards and raising slogans, the protesters condemned the killing of the children and demanded justice, while also decrying the use of force that led to civilian casualties.The protest remained largely peaceful but emotionally charged, with participants calling for the immediate identification and punishment of those responsible for the bomb attack.
Demonstrators also urged authorities to ensure the protection of civilians, particularly in vulnerable areas affected by ongoing tensions.Protesters raised slogans such as “Go back Central Forces”, “Narco-terrorists must be eliminated”, “Justice for Tronglaobi victims”, “Protect civilians and women”, and “Self-determination is our birthright”, reflecting growing public anger.Similar demonstrations were reported from other parts of the Imphal valley, with local clubs, Meira Paibi groups, and civil society organisations staging sit-ins, rallies, and road blockades.
Speaking on the sidelines of the protest, co-ordinating body Khurai spokesperson Thoidingjam Bon said the origins of the ongoing conflict lie with Kuki militant groups and called for decisive action to address the situation. He demanded the implementation of the national register of citizens (NRC) in Manipur to identify illegal immigrants and urged the govt to withdraw the suspension of operations (SoO) agreements with Kuki militant groups.The spokesperson also demanded that those responsible for the Tronglaobi bomb attack be identified and punished at the earliest, stressing that justice must be delivered without delay.Similar protests were reported from other parts of the Imphal valley, with local clubs, Meira Paibi groups, and civil society organisations staging sit-ins, rallies, and road blockades.
