Women block NH-202 in Imphal East; Multiple sit-in protests held 

A large number of women, mainly from Tangkhul and Meetei communities, staged a protest today by blocking National Highway-202 (Imphal–Ukhrul road) at Yaingangpokpi Bazar under Yaingangpokpi Police Station in Imphal East district.
The protesters, including Meira Paibis, expressed anger over the lack of resolution to the ongoing crisis, stating that even after three years, the situation remains unresolved. Speaking to the media, one protester alleged that fresh tensions were triggered by incidents reported on April 17, shortly after the Chief Minister’s visit to Ukhrul. Despite assurances of unrestricted movement along the highways, civilians travelling from Imphal were reportedly attacked within 48 hours.
According to the demonstrators, suspected Kuki militants allegedly opened fire, resulting in the death of two individuals. They further claimed that in a separate incident, two minor siblings were killed, while three civilians allegedly died in firing by central security forces during subsequent protests.
Voicing dissatisfaction with both the Centre and the State government, the protesters accused authorities of failing to take decisive action to ensure the safety of civilians. They also opposed the deployment and movement of central forces in their areas, demanding restrictions and stating that such forces were not welcome.
Meanwhile, a peaceful sit-in protest was held on Friday at Changangei Kabui village in Imphal West district against the killing of two children at Tronglaobi and the death of three civilians during a protest that followed. The demonstrators alleged that the children were killed in a bomb blast on April 7, reportedly carried out by armed militants, and criticised security forces for failing to prevent the incident despite the presence of a nearby Central Reserve Police Force camp.
Protesters further alleged that when civilians gathered to demand justice, central security forces opened fire, leading to additional casualties. The sit-in was organised by residents and organisations from five villages—Pantilong, Tamphagei, Yurembam, Changangei, and Kadingmuwan Development Organisation—under the aegis of civil society groups including All Manipur United Clubs’ Organisation, Poirei Leimarol Meira Paibi Apunba Manipur, All Manipur Women Voluntary Association, Committee on Human Rights, and Meitei Students’ Federation.
In a separate development, another sit-in protest was held at Keishampat Leimajam Leikai community hall, organised by the All Manipur Recognised Private Schools Welfare Association, condemning the incidents at Tronglaobi and Ukhrul.