Violence returned to Manipur’s Churachandpur district , barely 24 hours after the state government’s reorganisation, underscoring the fragile situation on the ground. Protests broke out following the swearing-in of a new deputy chief minister, quickly spiraling into clashes between demonstrators and security forces.
The flashpoint was the Tuibong area, where residents gathered to oppose what they described as the installation of a “popular government.” As tensions mounted, authorities deployed additional security personnel to prevent the situation from slipping further out of control.
Clashes in Tuibong as Protests Turn Violent
What began as a protest soon escalated into open confrontation. Demonstrators and security forces clashed as officials attempted to disperse the crowd. Tear gas shells were fired, and baton charges were used after protesters allegedly outnumbered personnel on the ground and began pelting stones.
The unrest marked a renewed flare-up in the district, driven by opposition to Nemcha Kipgen’s induction into the BJP-led government as deputy chief minister. According to officials, at least two people suffered minor injuries during the clashes.
Mob Action Near Tuibong Bazaar Raises Alarm
Officials said a mob assembled near Tuibong Bazaar, where protesters set fire to discarded materials, including tyres, while raising slogans against Nemcha Kipgen. The situation deteriorated when security forces moved in to clear the area, triggering resistance from demonstrators.
As violence spread, authorities rushed in additional forces to prevent further escalation. Security officials described the atmosphere as tense, noting that the district had remained on edge since Wednesday evening, shortly after Kipgen took the oath of office.
Kuki Groups Call Shutdown, Warn Local MLAs
Opposition to the new government formation has extended beyond street protests. Several Kuki groups have reportedly warned community MLAs against participating in the government, calling for a total shutdown in Churachandpur.
Protests were also planned at multiple locations across the district, signaling broader resistance and raising concerns about prolonged instability in the region.
Chief Minister Assures Action for Displaced Families
Amid the renewed violence, Manipur Chief Minister Y Khemchand Singh sought to shift focus toward humanitarian concerns. Speaking to reporters, he said addressing the plight of people displaced by ethnic violence in both hill and valley districts would be his government’s top priority.
“Our first priority will be to look after the problems of internally displaced persons in both the hills and the valley. The biggest issue is that they are not able to return to their homes. The government will formulate a roadmap very soon,” Singh said.
The newly sworn-in chief minister took office on Wednesday, and violence resurfaced in Churachandpur just a day later, highlighting the urgent challenges for his reorganised government.
