Tension gripped Manipur as extensive protests broke out in the valley following a bomb attack in Bishnupur district on April 7, resulting in the deaths of two minors. The disruption led to the closure of markets, educational institutions, banks, and offices, with deserted roads as residents adhered to strict security measures.
In response to the incident, the Coordinating Committee on Manipur Integrity (COCOMI) organized a protest rally in Imphal, demanding the resignation of Chief Minister Y Khemchand Singh and State Home Minister Govindas Konthoujam. The rally faced resistance from local police who fired tear gas shells to disperse the crowd violating curfew orders.
COCOMI’s executive member, Nahakpam Shanta, criticized the government for failing to ensure public safety amidst recent law and order disturbances in the valley. He highlighted a separate incident near a Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) camp where three individuals were reportedly shot by security forces, indicating governance and security inadequacies.
Apart from Imphal, a sit-in protest took place in Kakching district where Keirak Apunba Meira Paibi members denounced the attack and voiced concerns over alleged excessive force by CRPF personnel against civilians protesting the incident.
The Manipur government conducted a thorough evaluation of the security situation, with Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh overseeing a security meeting attended by state Home Minister Konthoujam Govindas Singh, senior officials, and representatives from central and state security forces. The government emphasized its commitment to peace and citizens’ protection.
Security measures were heightened in various districts, including Imphal East, Imphal West, Bishnupur, Kakching, and Thoubal, with stringent curfew restrictions in place to maintain order.