IT News
Imphal, Jan 7:
Residents from Thamnapokpi, Sanasabi, and Yaingangpokpi villages have staged demonstrations urging authorities to retain central forces at Uyok Ching, a region recently impacted by clashes between militants and security personnel.
Villagers began sit-ins at the foothills of Uyok on Monday evening, voicing fears that the withdrawal of BSF and CRPF units stationed at Saibol village, bordering Imphal East district, could leave them vulnerable to armed attacks.
“We’ve heard unconfirmed reports about the removal of central forces. That’s why we’re here, appealing to the CRPF and BSF not to bow to pressure from Kuki groups,” said Mangi Leima, one of the protesters. She warned that withdrawing forces might lead to renewed violence against their villages.
The region has seen escalating tensions. Last month, armed men from positions near Uyok Ching targeted the villages of Thamnapokpi and Sanasabi, injuring four people, including a police officer. Central forces subsequently dismantled illegal bunkers in the area.
Tensions flared further on January 3 when a mob attacked the Kangpokpi district Superintendent of Police’s office, injuring the officer, allegedly over his failure to remove central forces. Earlier, on December 31, security personnel reportedly used lathi charges on women protesters in Saibol.
Manipur has been gripped by ethnic clashes between the Kuki and Meitei communities since May 2023, resulting in over 250 deaths and thousands displaced. Villagers fear that reducing security presence could reignite violence and expose their communities to greater risk.
