A massive rally organised by Coordinating Committee on Manipur Integrity in Imphal on Sunday turned tense after clashes broke out between protesters and security forces, further escalating the already fragile situation in Manipur.
Thousands of people had gathered in the state capital to participate in the demonstration, which was aimed at pressing key demands related to the ongoing ethnic and political tensions in the region. Protesters marched through several parts of the city, raising slogans and calling for stronger action from authorities.
Trouble began when sections of the crowd allegedly tried to move past restricted zones, prompting security personnel to intervene. Eyewitnesses reported that heated arguments quickly spiralled into confrontation, with some protesters throwing stones and security forces responding with crowd-control measures, including tear gas and baton charges.
The situation soon turned chaotic, with panic spreading among participants as forces attempted to disperse the gathering. Several people were reportedly injured during the clashes, though officials have not yet confirmed the exact number.
Authorities said the rally had initially been permitted under certain conditions, but tensions rose when protesters deviated from the agreed route and attempted to breach barricades. Security forces maintained that their response was necessary to prevent further escalation and maintain law and order.
COCOMI leaders, however, accused the administration of using excessive force against what they described as a largely peaceful protest. They alleged that the crackdown was unprovoked and warned that such actions could deepen public anger.
Manipur has been witnessing intermittent unrest for months, with civil society groups frequently organising demonstrations over various issues. Sunday’s incident has once again highlighted the volatility of the situation in Imphal, where even planned gatherings carry the risk of turning confrontational.
Following the clashes, additional security personnel were deployed across sensitive areas of the city to prevent any further disturbances. Officials have urged residents to remain calm and avoid spreading rumours, while monitoring the situation closely.
As tensions linger, the incident underscores the ongoing challenges faced by authorities in managing public protests in a region already marked by deep-rooted divisions and heightened political sensitivities.
