Manipur violence: Two killed, 25 injured in violent protest, CM N Biren Singh orders inquiry

Manipur violence: In a tragic turn of events, two individuals lost their lives while approximately 25 others sustained injuries during a violent protest and subsequent security force intervention in Manipur's Churachandpur district headquarters on Thursday night.

Manipur violence: Magisterial inquiries announced

Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh declared on Saturday the initiation of two separate magisterial inquiries. The first inquiry will investigate the violent incident in Churachandpur, while the second will delve into the arm-looting incident at Chingarel and Pangei in Imphal East district.

Addressing a press conference in Imphal, Singh emphasized the government's paramount responsibility to uphold law and order and safeguard public lives and property.

Manipur violence: FIR against Churachandpur leader

Singh, without divulging specific details, disclosed the intention to file a First Information Report (FIR) against a leader from Churachandpur suspected of instigating the violence. He cited a tweet from a prominent figure just before the Churachandpur incident as evidence of incitement and misleading of the youth.

Manipur violence: Unraveling the violence

The violent outburst ensued when a mob stormed the government complex, vandalizing the offices of the Superintendent of Police, District Deputy Commissioner, and mini-secretariat. The chaos unfolded after the suspension of a head constable from the Kuki-zo community in the district police.

Earlier, on February 13, another tragic incident occurred as a youth lost his life and three others sustained injuries during an attempted arm-looting at Manipur Police Training College (MPTC), Pangei, and 5th IRB Chingarel.

Manipur violence: Legal actions 

Amid escalating tensions, legal actions have been initiated against the Indigenous Tribal Leaders Forum (ITLF) and individuals issuing death threats to officials. The ITLF called for a shutdown in Churachandpur and demanded the departure of Police Superintendent Shivanand Surve from the hill district within 24 hours.

Singh reassured that appropriate measures, including the repair of damaged government properties, were underway. Additionally, he instructed senior police officials to investigate reported incidents in the Sugunu area (Kakching district) thoroughly.

As Manipur grapples with the aftermath of these distressing events, the government remains committed to restoring peace and security in the region. The inquiries aim to uncover the truth and bring those responsible for instigating violence to justice.