Manipur protest turns violent: Case filed for assault, obstruction, security breach
Imphal: A criminal case has been registered for offences including assault on a public servant, obstruction of duty, breaching security barricades, use of racial slurs, and unauthorised movement toward a protected premises in Manipur.
According to the Manipur Police morning bulletin issued on Friday, the case was registered at Porompat Police Station under relevant sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023.
The case follows a protest by a mob of about 50–60 individuals, identified as volunteers of the Coordinating Committee on Manipur Integrity (COCOMI), a prominent social organisation in the state, which took place on Thursday.
The police reported that the protesters emerged from Govindajee Crossing, carrying placards and shouting slogans opposing the conduct of the Sangai Festival 2025, and proceeded toward Hapta Kangjeibung, in clear violation of prohibitory orders issued by the District Magistrate, Imphal East. Security personnel made repeated attempts to stop and peacefully disperse the protesters.
Inspector General of Police (Zone–I) Themthing Ngashangva supervised the situation on the scene. Police teams, including women personnel, repeatedly attempted to stop and disperse the group. However, the mob turned violent, throwing water bottles and placards at the police.
A woman protester assaulted the IGP and used derogatory racial slurs while he was performing his duty.
The mob later moved toward the palace premises, where the house guards of the Member of Parliament allowed them inside, hindering police efforts.
The IGP approached the gate to question the action of the house guards, but did not enter the palace premises.
Meanwhile, police stated that efforts are underway to identify the woman protester who assaulted the IGP, using available video footage and witness statements.
However, a video clip uploaded on social media has shown a police officer using his baton to hit a woman protester.
Social media reports also claimed that the protesters were demanding the rights of Manipur IDPs and questioned the role of the Manipur police, asking whether they serve the people or politicians.
The Manipur Police added that personnel on duty acted with restraint and professionalism, and that only the minimum force necessary was used to restore order.