Amid Congress leader Rahul Gandhi's visit to violence-hit Manipur, the Indian Army reported a clash in the tense Kangpokpi district early this morning, saying that armed rioters opened fire in the village of Haraothel.
The army said it mobilised troops stationed nearby to prevent the situation from escalating and to prevent any collateral damage.
"Unprovoked firing by Armed Rioters towards Village Haraothel commenced at 5.30 AM. Own troops deployed in the area immediately mobilised to prevent escalation of situation," the army said in a statement.
Unconfirmed reports indicate some casualties and build up of large crowds in the area. Situation is being closely monitored and further details will follow, the army also said.
Meanwhile, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi's convoy remained stuck at Bishnupur for hours after it was by the Manipur police. Police officials said the convoy was stopped fearing violence along the route.
Police officials at the site said, "Seeing the ground situation, we stopped him (Rahul Gandhi) from moving forward and advised him to travel to Churachandpur via helicopter. There is a possibility of a grenade attack along the highway through which VIP Rahul Gandhi is moving. Keeping his security and safety in mind, we've not allowed him."
The BJP claimed that Gandhi was asked to take a chopper as his trip was opposed by various quarters but he was "stubborn" to travel by road route.
