Residents of Khangabok blocked National Highway 102 demanding the arrest of those responsible for the death of Laishram Rakesh, who was reportedly struck by a stone during clashes at a musical programme at the CYSA Playground in Cherapur, Khangabok Part-III.
The protesters demanded that the culprits be arrested within 24 hours and submitted a memorandum to the Deputy Commissioner of Thoubal seeking action in the case.
Following a public meeting at the Khangabok Mayai Leikai Community Hall, the protesters took out a rally before blocking the highway at Khangabok and Arongthong. They reportedly set tyres on fire on the road and later staged a sit-in in front of the Thoubal Superintendent of Police’s office at Khangabok.
The demonstrators carried placards calling for an end to violence, the restoration of peace and immediate action against those responsible for Rakesh’s death.
They also urged authorities to take steps to ease tensions between the two communities and prevent groups allegedly responsible for provoking violence from operating with impunity.
The protest followed growing public anger over Rakesh’s death and demands for accountability in the incident.