India: At least 2 dead, more than 25 injured amid violence in Manipur's Churachandpur

India: At least 2 dead, more than 25 injured amid violence in Manipur's Churachandpur- In a tragic turn of events, Manipur's Churachandpur district witnessed violent clashes between security forces and protesters, leading to at least two deaths and more than 25 injuries. The unrest was triggered by the suspension of a head constable, Siamlalpaul, after a controversial selfie with alleged "armed miscreants" went viral on social media.

Background:

Churachandpur, dominated by Kuki-Zo tribes, became the epicenter of unrest as hundreds of people took to the streets demanding the reinstatement of the suspended head constable. The Manipur Police's attempt to control the situation was met with resistance, resulting in clashes between the security forces and the mob.

Events Leading to Unrest:

The turmoil began when the head constable's suspension order was issued by the Churachandpur Superintendent of Police, Shivanand Surve. The officer faced disciplinary action after a video surfaced on social media, showing him in a bunker with armed individuals and village defense volunteers on a hilltop. The protesters insisted on the immediate reinstatement of Siamlalpaul, leading to intensified demonstrations.

Incident at Manipur Police Training College:

Prior to the Churachandpur clashes, a large group of "village volunteers" reportedly attempted to storm the Manipur Police Training College in Imphal East district. The college, housing a significant arsenal of firearms, witnessed a tragic turn as security personnel opened fire to control the crowd, resulting in the death of a 24-year-old, Okram Sanaton.

Previous Instances of Violence:

This recent incident adds to the history of unrest in Manipur. Last year in May, violent clashes erupted during a 'Tribal Solidarity March,' protesting against the Meitei community's demand for Scheduled Tribe (ST) status. Official data indicates that nearly 200 people lost their lives, and hundreds were injured in the ensuing clashes.

Ongoing Tensions:

The population dynamics in Manipur further complicate the situation, with Meiteis constituting 53% of the population in the Imphal Valley, while Nagas and Kukis, accounting for a little over 40%, reside in the hill districts. The existing tensions between these communities have fueled sporadic incidents of violence, including the recent clash in Churachandpur.

Conclusion:

The recent violence in Manipur underscores the need for a comprehensive approach to address the underlying issues causing tension between different communities. The authorities face the challenge of restoring peace and fostering dialogue to prevent further escalation of violence in the region.