Mass protests broke out across Manipur’s Imphal Valley on Friday (February 23) following the arrest of more than 10 village volunteers in Kakching district. The demonstrators, angered by the security forces’ operation, burnt tyres on roads and forced the closure of shops and markets in several areas, including Imphal East, Imphal West, Thoubal, and Kakching districts.
The arrests took place during an early morning operation in Panjao Pallumda, Kakching district, after which the detained volunteers were taken to a security forces camp in Phundrei, Thoubal district. The massive public outcry reflects rising tensions in the region, particularly in response to the state’s crackdown on illegally held weapons.
Manipur Protest Over Arrest of Village Volunteers
The Imphal Valley protests began soon after news broke of the arrest of over 10 village volunteers in Kakching district. According to officials, the security forces launched an early morning raid in Panjao Pallumda and later transferred the detained individuals to a security forces camp in Phundrei, Thoubal district.
Protest Highlights:
- Burning of tyres on major roads.
- Shutdown of markets and roadside shops in areas like Wangkhei, Uripok, Thangmeiband, and Khurai in Imphal.
- Demonstrations held in multiple districts, including Imphal East, Imphal West, Thoubal, and Kakching.
The protests have intensified fears of further unrest in a state already dealing with prolonged ethnic tensions and security challenges.
Arrests Follow Governor’s Call for Surrender of Illegal Weapons
The arrest of the village volunteers came just a day after Manipur Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla issued a strong warning regarding looted and illegally held weapons in the state.
The Governor’s statement urged people to voluntarily surrender weapons within seven days, warning that strict action would follow once the deadline expires. This directive is part of the government’s broader strategy to restore peace and order in the violence-hit state.
Why is the Government Cracking Down on Illegal Weapons?
- Ongoing ethnic tensions have led to an increase in armed conflicts.
- Reports of looted weapons from police stations and security stockpiles.
- Efforts to prevent armed clashes between different groups.
However, the arrests have sparked anger, with many questioning whether village volunteers, who often act as local defense forces, should be the primary targets of such operations.
Impact of the Protest: Roadblocks, Market Closures & Growing Tension
The protests disrupted daily life in several districts, with demonstrators resorting to burning tyres on roads and blocking traffic in key areas.
Key Locations Affected by the Protest
- Imphal East and Imphal West
- Thoubal and Kakching districts
- Markets in Wangkhei, Uripok, Thangmeiband, and Khurai
Shops and businesses in major markets were forced to shut down, while security forces remained on high alert to prevent further escalation.
Local sources indicate that more protests may follow if the arrested volunteers are not released, raising concerns over the state’s already fragile law and order situation.
Political Reactions & Public Outrage
The mass arrests and subsequent protests have led to strong reactions from various political and civil society groups. While state authorities maintain that the arrests are part of their effort to curb illegal arms possession, many in the Imphal Valley view it as an unjustified action against local defense volunteers.
Public Sentiment:
- Many residents believe the village volunteers play a crucial role in community protection, especially in areas vulnerable to ethnic violence.
- Activists argue that the government should focus on disarming all armed groups equally, rather than targeting only one section.
- Political parties have expressed concerns over the deteriorating situation, urging authorities to handle the issue sensitively.
Several organizations have called for dialogue between the government and local representatives to prevent further escalation.
The protests in Manipur’s valley districts reflect the deep-seated tensions and distrust between the government and local communities. While the state administration is focused on restoring peace through disarmament, the public backlash against the arrests suggests that a more inclusive approach is needed.
Key Questions Moving Forward:
- Will the Manipur government reconsider its approach toward village volunteers?
- How will the authorities address the growing public dissatisfaction?
- Will further protests and shutdowns take place in the coming days?
As the deadline for surrendering illegal weapons approaches, tensions are expected to rise, making it critical for the government to engage in peaceful dialogue with community leaders.
A Critical Moment for Manipur
The arrests of village volunteers in Kakching district and the subsequent protests across Imphal Valley mark a critical moment in Manipur’s ongoing crisis.
With widespread public anger, roadblocks, and market closures, the state government must carefully navigate the situation to prevent further unrest. As the Governor’s seven-day deadline for surrendering illegal weapons looms, how the authorities handle future operations will determine the state’s path toward peace or further conflict.
