A wave of unrest swept through the Churachandpur district in Manipur as a mob, predominantly composed of Kuki community members, launched a violent protest on Thursday. The catalyst for the uproar was the suspension of a Kuki head constable, whose involvement in a video featuring armed individuals from the community sparked outrage.
During the chaotic protest, which saw hundreds of individuals participating, the offices of the Superintendent of Police and the Deputy Commissioner were stormed by the enraged mob. Tragically, the confrontation escalated, resulting in the loss of lives. Letlalkhuol Gangte, aged 29, and a 15-year-old youth were reported as casualties amid the clash with security forces.
The Indigenous Tribal Leaders’ Forum, a significant Kuki-Zo organization, swiftly reacted by calling for a shutdown in response to the fatalities. In a public notice, the Forum held the Superintendent of Police, Shivanand Surve, and Deputy Commissioner S Dharun Kumar culpable for the violent turn of events, demanding accountability for the deaths.
Expressing dissatisfaction with the handling of the situation, the ITLF condemned the use of force against civilians and demanded immediate action to address the grievances of the Kuki community. The organization issued an ultimatum, threatening further escalation if their demands, including the withdrawal of the head constable’s suspension and the replacement of the two officers with Union Territory cadre officers from the Kuki-Zo community, were not met within 24 hours.
Responding to the allegations and mounting pressure, Deputy Commissioner S Dharun Kumar emphasized the commitment of the administration to serve the people of the district. He underscored the responsibility of All India Service officers, including himself and Superintendent of Police Shivanand Surve, to uphold law and order and ensure the safety of the public.
Meanwhile, the suspension order issued by Superintendent of Police Surve against the head constable was justified as a response to what was deemed as “grave misconduct.” The constable’s purported involvement in the video, particularly in a frontline firing position in the hills, was cited as the basis for the disciplinary action.
Thursday night’s protest also saw the destruction of state property, including damage to the Deputy Commissioner’s official residence, parts of the office, and several vehicles. Security forces engaged in efforts to contain the violence, resulting in injuries on both sides as the situation remained tense in the district.
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