Imphal: A surge of unrest gripped Kangpokpi district today, as security forces were compelled to deploy multiple rounds of tear gas to quell a mass demonstration obstructing a vital highway.
The protest, orchestrated by groups opposing unrestricted movement, brought traffic to a standstill along the critical artery.
The catalyst for the escalating tensions was a violent attack on a Manipur State Transport (MST) bus in Gamgiphai, within Kangpokpi district. A mob descended upon the vehicle, hurling stones and causing significant disruption. This incident occurred shortly after the state government initiated the resumption of inter-district bus services from Imphal to the hill districts, a move intended to restore normalcy after two years of ethnic conflict.
This attempt to reinstate public transport services followed a previous failed effort in December 2024, when a state government initiative to restart bus services was met with empty platforms at the MST station in Imphal’s Moirangkhom. Today, however, the resumption was met with fierce resistance.
In response to the escalating disorder, security forces resorted to deploying tear gas and employing baton charges to disperse the assembled crowd. Several demonstrators sustained injuries during the confrontation, according to official sources.
Amidst a substantial security presence, including an Assam Rifles convoy providing escort to the MST buses, authorities have heightened their vigilance to avert any further disturbances. The region remains in a state of heightened tension as security forces maintain a watchful presence, closely monitoring the unfolding situation.
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