Manipur Turmoil: Deputy Commissioner's Office Attacked As Violence Escalates In Kangpokpi

Fresh violence erupted in Kangpokpi town, Manipur, on Friday, with the Deputy Commissioner's office coming under attack and a police officer sustaining injuries.

According to the police, a group of individuals marched towards the Deputy Commissioner's office and launched an assault on the administrative headquarters in the town.

The unrest was triggered by allegations that the Superintendent of Police (SP) Kangpokpi failed to honor a key promise made to local leaders.

Around 7:00 PM, protesters, determined to hold the SP accountable, marched toward his office. Tensions quickly escalated as security forces inside the office reportedly responded with blank firing and tear gas.

In the chaos that followed, the SP was reportedly injured as demonstrators, incensed by the forceful response, resorted to stone-pelting. The atmosphere became increasingly volatile, with gunshots and clouds of tear gas adding to the pandemonium.

As of the latest updates, the highway near the SP office remains a flashpoint, with protesters refusing to disperse despite the heavy crackdown. The ongoing standoff, coupled with the rising violence, has left the area on edge and risks pushing the region closer to further unrest.

The situation remains highly unstable, with tensions running high and the potential for more violence continuing to loom.

Since May 3, 2023, Manipur has been gripped by intermittent violence between the majority Meitei community and the Kukis, fueled by disputes over quotas and economic benefits. The violence has resulted in over 200 fatalities and left thousands displaced.