State forces used tear gas on relief camp inmates protesting for resettlement in Imphal East, Manipur. The confrontation resulted in injuries to both protestors and police.
The protest, organized by the Committee on Protection of Meetei Victims (COPMeV), aimed to march towards the Chief Minister’s Bungalow in Imphal. As the demonstrators exited the Akampat Relief Camp, police issued warnings and then deployed tear gas to disperse the crowd. Protestors retaliated with stones, leading to further escalation.
Several inmates, including elderly and those with pre-existing conditions, sustained injuries and required hospitalization. Police also reported injuries. Among the injured were Yumnam Ibechoubi Leima, Nao Leima, Keisham Thaja, Soibam Rohit, Ningthoujam Malesh, Thounaojam Sanathoiba, and Yumnam Sandhiya Leima.
COPMeV convenor Th Budha Meitei emphasized that the protest was not politically influenced but aimed to highlight the plight of internally displaced persons (IDPs). Despite multiple memorandums to state and central leaders, their demands for resettlement have been ignored, forcing them to live in harsh conditions for 15 months.
The confrontation affected students and staff at SCM English School, with several children needing medical attention due to tear gas exposure. A local journalist covering the event was also injured.
Following the initial clash, the police allowed protestors to continue to Chingmathak in Imphal West, where other IDPs were also protesting. Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh accused certain groups of instigating the IDPs and emphasized ongoing peace talks in Silchar.
The incident underscores the ongoing tension and urgent need for resettlement solutions for IDPs in Manipur. Authorities face increasing pressure to address the humanitarian crisis and ensure the safety of civilians during public demonstrations.
