Protests Erupt in Manipur over Arrests of Village Volunteers

In Manipur’s Imphal Valley, citizens protested vigorously against the arrest of village volunteers in Kakching district. These demonstrations arose after over 10 volunteers were detained during a security operation. The protests coincide with Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla’s call for the surrender of looted weapons.

Demonstrators took to the streets of Manipur’s Imphal Valley on Friday, setting tyres ablaze to express outrage over the arrest of village volunteers in the Kakching district, authorities reported.

Security forces conducted an early morning operation in Panjao Pallumda, resulting in the arrest of over 10 volunteers who were then transported to a camp in Thoubal district, according to officials.

These events unfolded in the wake of Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla's appeal to residents of the strife-torn state to surrender looted firearms, warning of imminent strict action post-deadline. The protests spanned across multiple districts, leading to the closure of shops and markets.