Protests erupt in Manipur after bodies of two missing youths found
Security forces used tear gas and baton charges to disperse agitators in Kangpokpi district following the discovery of two mutilated bodies.
Protesters clashed with security forces in Manipur's Kangpokpi district on Sunday night after the mutilated bodies of two missing youths were discovered in the neighbouring Senapati district, according to reports by Deccan Chronicle and The Federal.
The deceased, identified as Paoginlal Hangsing, 20, and T Chongloi, 21, had gone missing from Taphou Kuki village on October 28 or 29. During a search operation in a banana farm, joint teams of the Manipur Police, CRPF, and Assam Rifles found the youths' bodies inside gunny bags.
Agitators blocked roads with boulders, logs, and burning tyres, and threw stones at security forces. Police responded by using baton charges and firing tear gas shells to disperse the crowds. One protester sustained a head injury after being allegedly hit by a tear gas shell but is in stable condition.
Deputy Chief Ministers Nemcha Kipgen and Losii Dikho both condemned the killings. While Kipgen called for a thorough investigation into the heinous crime, Dikho stated that no disagreement justifies taking a human life.
The Naga Peoples' Organisation (NPO) has called for an independent investigation to prevent the manipulation of evidence. Meanwhile, the Kangpokpi-based Committee on Tribal Unity (COTU) demanded the resignation of Dikho and the transfer of Taphou Kuki village's jurisdiction to the Kangpokpi Superintendent of Police.
Additional security forces were deployed on Monday morning as tension remains high. Police stated that extensive search operations will continue to apprehend those responsible.