IT News
Imphal, April 8:
Security has been intensified in Manipur’s Lilong area of Thoubal district after violent protests erupted over the recently passed Waqf Amendment Act, 2025. Armed security forces equipped with anti-riot gear, including tear gas shells and body protectors, have been deployed across the Muslim-majority town, officials said on April 8.
An order from the Thoubal Superintendent of Police instructed mobile patrolling of vulnerable areas and deployment of commando teams at key locations. Security has also been beefed up at the residence of local MLA Abdul Nasir.
The unrest escalated on Sunday night when a mob of nearly 7,000 to 8,000 people set fire to the home of Md Asker Ali, president of the BJP Minority Morcha in Manipur, at Sambrukhong Mamei in Lilong. The attack followed Ali’s social media post supporting the Waqf Amendment Act. He later issued an apology and condemned the legislation.
In response to the violence, prohibitory orders under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita were imposed in the constituency, banning public gatherings of five or more people and the carrying of weapons.
Meanwhile, authorities have also stepped up vigilance in Imphal East district ahead of a planned “human chain protest” at Khurai Khumidok Bazaar. On Sunday, over 5,000 demonstrators rallied on National Highway-102 at Lilong, disrupting traffic and clashing with security forces in areas like Irong Chesaba.
The Waqf (Amendment) Bill was passed by both Houses of Parliament last week and received presidential assent on Saturday.
