Manipur Violence: Tensions Rise As COCOMI Protest Turns Violent, Police Use Tear Gas To Stop March To CM

Tension gripped Imphal on Saturday after a protest rally organised by the Coordinating Committee on Manipur Integrity turned violent. What began as a large and determined march for peace quickly escalated when protesters attempted to move towards the Chief Minister's residence.

Security forces intervened, and the situation soon turned tense, with police firing tear gas shells to disperse the crowd. After several hours of unrest, authorities managed to clear the area and send protesters back.

Rising Anger Over Unresolved Violence

The protest was part of a wider expression of public anger over the ongoing crisis in Manipur. Demonstrators gathered in large numbers across Imphal, voicing frustration over the lack of progress in bringing peace and justice to the state.

The rally was organised to push the government to respond more firmly to recent incidents of violence, especially the April 7 case in which two minors and three others lost their lives in a blast.

People at the protest said that such incidents have shaken public confidence and created fear among families. Many participants carried placards and shouted slogans demanding accountability, justice for victims, and a clear plan from the government to restore normalcy.

March Blocked Near Chief Minister's Residence

As the protest gained momentum, thousands of people tried to march towards the residence of Chief Minister Y Khemchand Singh. Anticipating the situation, security forces had already deployed heavy barricading at key entry points leading to the CM's bungalow in the Babupara area.

Despite repeated warnings, sections of the crowd tried to push through the barricades, which led to clashes with the police. The confrontation became more intense in areas like Khurai Lamlong, where protesters came close to breaking through the security cordon. The use of tear gas created panic, forcing many to run for safety, while others stayed back and continued raising slogans.

Protesters Demand Justice and Rehabilitation

The rally was not only about one incident but reflected deeper concerns about the ongoing ethnic conflict in the state. Protesters demanded justice for those killed in recent violence and also called for proper rehabilitation of thousands of displaced families who have been living in difficult conditions for months.

Many people said they feel ignored and unheard despite repeated appeals for help. The protest gave them a platform to express their pain and demand urgent action. Emotions ran high as families affected by the violence shared their struggles and called on the government to act without delay.

Memorandum Submitted to the Government

Even as clashes took place on the streets, a small group of representatives from COCOMI was later allowed to meet the Chief Minister. They submitted a detailed memorandum outlining six major concerns and demanding answers from the government.

After the meeting, COCOMI convenor Y K Dhiren told the media that the protest movement would continue if concrete steps are not taken. He stressed that the crisis in Manipur has continued for far too long without a proper solution. According to him, the lack of clear political direction and delays in decision-making have made the situation worse.

COCOMI spokesperson Nahakpam Shanta Singh also said that the organisation is waiting for a clear action report on the April 7 incident. He warned that if the government fails to respond, the group will intensify its agitation through other democratic means.

Long-Standing Conflict Still Unresolved

The unrest in Manipur is part of a larger ethnic conflict that began in May 2023 between the Meitei community in the valley and the Kuki community in the hills. Since then, the state has witnessed repeated violence, leading to the loss of over 260 lives and displacement of thousands of people.

The prolonged nature of the conflict has created deep divisions and made peace efforts more challenging. Many residents feel that despite several discussions and promises, there has been little real progress on the ground.

Situation Remains Tense

Saturday's protest once again highlighted the fragile situation in Manipur. While security forces managed to control the immediate unrest, the underlying issues remain unresolved. The anger seen on the streets reflects a larger demand for justice, safety, and long-term peace.

With organisations like COCOMI warning of stronger protests in the future, the pressure is now on the government to respond quickly and effectively. The coming days will be crucial in determining whether the state can move towards stability or continue to face unrest.