A fresh wave of violence erupted in Manipur on Sunday, with protests turning deadly and destructive. Security forces opened fire in Jiribam district to disperse crowds, resulting in the death of 20-year-old protester K Athouba. Another individual was injured and hospitalized, though their condition remains undisclosed.
The unrest led to mobs ransacking and setting fire to the local offices of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and Congress, with furniture and property being destroyed. The violence occurred near the Jiribam police station, exacerbating tensions in the area.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah is scheduled to meet with officials to discuss the escalating crisis, while the National People’s Party (NPP) withdrew support for the BJP-led state government, citing its failure to restore order.
Meanwhile, curfews were imposed in Imphal West and East, and internet services were suspended in seven districts as security forces continue to manage the volatile situation. The NPP’s withdrawal leaves the BJP’s position in the 60-member state assembly weakened.
Authorities have also arrested 23 individuals connected to the violence, with weapons and mobile phones seized during the crackdown.
