Tensions escalated in Manipur after an angry mob, a few hundred strong, reportedly thronged outside Chief Minister N Biren Singh's personal residence in Heingang area of Imphal East. Security forces in the region foiled their attempt to enter the residence, police said, according to PTI. The residence was reportedly empty.
Just a few hours ago, the district magistrate of Imphal East announced that movement restrictions, barring large groups, will be relaxed from 5 am to 11 am on Friday for all areas of the district.
Fresh violence broke out in Imphal Valley over the death of two youths whose viral pictures caused widespread protests in the northeastern state. Earlier today, their parents pleaded with authorities to locate the remains of their children so that the last rights of the boy and the girl can be conducted "with the dignity they deserve."
Protestors, mainly students, clashed with security personnel in Uripok, Yaiskul, Sagolband and Tera areas of the state capital, prompting them to fire several rounds of tear gas shells to curb the situation.
Roads were blocked with burning tyres, boulders and iron pipes to prevent security forces from entering residential areas, while a mob vandalised the DC office and torched two four-wheelers. A BJP office at Khongjam in Thoubal district was also set on fire, according to the police.
Curfew was re-imposed in the two districts -- Imphal East and West -- as the security forces combatted the violent protests, which saw 65 demonstrators being injured since Tuesday. Police were also conducting a search operation for the recovery of snatched arms and the arrest of the accused.
In a statement, the Manipur Police said that stern action will be taken against those indulging in such crimes.
