Guwahati: A 30-year-old man was killed in police firing and more than 20 others, mostly women, were wounded Saturday as clashes erupted between Kuki demonstrators and security forces in Manipur’s Kangpokpi district. The violence broke out during protests against Centre’s move to resume free movement across the strife-torn state.The clashes erupted in Kuki-dominated areas of Gamgiphai, Motbung, and Keithelmanbi when demonstrators attempted to block vehicles, including a state transport bus travelling from Imphal to Senapati district. Protesters set at least two vehicles on fire. Kuki Zo Council calls indefinite bandh, Meiteis slam blockadeThe situation remains tense, with security forces on high alert in the region.Home minister Amit Shah had earlier directed state authorities to ensure free movement on all roads in Manipur, a move aimed at bridging the divide between Meitei and Kuki-Zo communities. Under heavy security escort, the state resumed inter-district govt bus services Saturday, but officials reported little participation.The unrest extended to the Meitei-dominated valley, where security forces halted a peace march by Federation of Civil Society (FOCS) at Sekmai, before it could reach Kangpokpi. “If govt is not in a position to allow free movement of the public, what is the need for making the announcement?” said FOCS president T Manihar.Kuki-Zo Council opposed the push for unrestricted movement, warning it could lead to violence. “The actions of state govt to send Meitei people into Kuki-Zo areas, despite ample warnings against such movements, have escalated tensions in the region,” it said. Declaring an indefinite shutdown across all Kuki-Zo areas, effective from Saturday midnight, the council said it does not oppose the free movement of essential commodities but rejects unrestricted travel from the valley. Meitei Heritage Society called the blockade an act of defiance.
Manipur protester killed, 20 injured amid clashes over free movement | India News
