IDPs, security forces clash in Imphal East dist; 8 injured

At least eight persons, including a journalist and a police personnel, were injured on Saturday when a protest by internally displaced persons (IDPs) escalated into a confrontation with security forces in Manipur’s Imphal East district. The clash broke out along Imphal-Ukhrul Road at Yaingangpokpi when IDPs attempted to march towards Gwaltabi to return to their abandoned villages. Police personnel backed by Central forces blocked the march, triggering a volatile situation. Tear gas shells and mock bombs were used to disperse the protesters, who alleged that live rounds were also fired.
Six injured IDPs, identified as Pheirembam Rajesh (38), Oinam Chandrabali Devi (45), Sobam Bina (50), Achom Sanajit (36), Ahanthem Asha (37) and Laishram Naotombi Devi, were initially treated at Yaingangpokpi PHC before being shifted to JNIMS hospital, Imphal. A video journalist with Impact TV, P. Bobo, and one Imphal East police personnel also sustained injuries and were reported to be stable.
The incident marked a sharp escalation in ongoing protests against the Manipur Sangai Festival. Endorsed by several CSOs, IDPs in relief camps have opposed the government’s decision to host the 10-day tourism festival, alleging it was aimed at projecting peace and normalcy while their plight remained unresolved.
Protesters demanded immediate return to their native villages, questioning the government’s transfer of funds for rebuilding houses without ensuring safe resettlement. “If going back is still unsafe, what exactly is the money meant for?” one woman IDP asked.
Officials including the DC and SP of Imphal East rushed to the site to pacify protesters, assuring that the government was actively considering their safe return. However, IDPs refused to relent, insisting they must be allowed to go back immediately.
The situation remained tense at Yaingangpokpi as police maintained a tight cordon, citing law and order concerns, while the presence of Kuki groups in Gwaltabi further heightened tensions.