A torch rally organised by Meira Paibis and local clubs in Kakching district on Sunday night witnessed tense moments after an altercation broke out between protestors and security personnel.
The rally was held in protest against the killing of 2 children and the injury of their mother at Tronglaobi, as well as the subsequent killing of 3 individuals during protests over the earlier incident. A large number of people participated in the demonstration, raising slogans demanding action against those responsible for the killings, questioning the government’s ability to ensure public safety, and calling for measures including implementation of the National Register of Citizens (NRC).
According to reports, district police led by Superintendent of Police Kakching, Priyadarshini Laishram, blocked the road at Kakching Bazar to prevent any untoward incidents. However, protestors arriving via National Highway 137(A) attempted to march towards the Deputy Commissioner and Superintendent of Police offices towards Kakching Chumnang, leading to a confrontation with security personnel.
Police resorted to firing tear gas shells and mock bombs to disperse the crowd and bring the situation under control. The standoff reportedly continued until around 2:30 am.
During the incident, one woman sustained an injury to her leg after being hit by a tear gas shell and was rushed to District Hospital Kakching for treatment. Police also detained 16 individuals in connection with the unrest.