At least three individuals were killed and numerous others sustained injuries in India's northeastern state of Manipur following clashes with security forces in the Churachandpur district late on Thursday, as unrest persists in the region.
According to a police official, close to 200 fatalities have been recorded since intense conflicts erupted last May between the predominant Meitei community and the minority Kuki group. These clashes, occurring in a state bordering Myanmar, have been primarily driven by disputes over the distribution of economic benefits and tribal quotas. As a consequence, thousands remain displaced, seeking refuge in relief camps.
Churachandpur, home to the Kuki-Zo community, was one of the initial flashpoints during the outbreak of ethnic violence last May.
The recent episode of violence was triggered by the suspension of a Kuki constable by district police authorities after purported images of him alongside armed individuals circulated on social media. Approximately 400 people rallied outside the district police chief's office around 7:30pm (1400 GMT), demanding the rescission of the suspension order.
The situation escalated when the mob launched an attack on the complex housing the offices of the police chief and the district administration, situated in the town center.
"They breached the gates and scaled the walls of the complex. Several vehicles were set ablaze, and later in the night, the official residence of the deputy commissioner was also set on fire," revealed a senior police official speaking on condition of anonymity.
Initially, security forces attempted to disperse the crowd using tear gas. Subsequently, the situation escalated, leading to the use of lethal force.
The unnamed official stated that around 25 individuals sustained injuries and are currently receiving medical attention at local hospitals.
In response to the escalating tensions, authorities have imposed a five-day suspension of mobile internet services in Churachandpur.
The Indigenous Tribal Leaders' Forum (ITLF), representing various tribal groups, issued a warning to district police chief Shivanand Surve, who issued the suspension order, demanding his departure from Churachandpur within the next 24 hours.
