Police authorities in the Indian state of Manipur reported that a group of protestors tried to storm and vandalize the residence of the Chief Minister on Thursday. Rapid response from the security forces, who used tear gas and batons, did manage to disperse the crowd but not without causing injuries to ten individuals. The startling incident took place during the imposition of a curfew on Wednesday, which followed student protests against the security forces concerning alleged abduction and subsequent murder of two students.
In addition to targeting the Chief Minister’s abode, demonstrators also set their sights on the local parliamentary representative’s residence. In an attempt to minimise the visibility of protestors, authorities proceeded to cut off the electricity supply in the vicinity.
The state of Manipur has long been plagued by continuous violent ethnic clashes, primarily between the Kuki tribe, who are predominantly Hindu, and the Christian Meitei tribe. This issue has been festering since May, and in recent developments, groups have thrown petrol bombs at two police facilities. In addition to the violent clashes, the region, not long ago, experienced an internet ban that lasted almost five months.
The ongoing conflict has resulted in tragic human loss and displacement, with more than 180 individuals losing their lives and over 50,000 people forcefully driven out of their homes. Human Rights Watch has criticised the Manipur authorities for instigating the situation further by promoting policies that propagate division and endorse Hindu nationalism.