IMPHAL: Three days after internet services were restored in Manipur, the government has opted to suspend mobile internet access for the next five days due to student protests in the Imphal valley on Tuesday. In response to the ongoing volatility, the government has also made the decision to close all schools until Friday.
Earlier in the day, law enforcement authorities employed tear gas and baton charges to disperse protesters, resulting in injuries to 45 students. The protests were sparked by the alleged killing of two youths who were reportedly kidnapped in July. The crisis was ignited when photographs of the deceased youth circulated widely on social media platforms.
As the protests gained momentum, students marched toward the Chief Minister’s secretariat. Police forces intercepted the demonstrators near Sanjenthong in the Imphal East district, culminating in a confrontation that necessitated the use of force by the police, resulting in the injuries. They are currently receiving medical treatment at various private and government hospitals across the region.
The mysterious disappearance of the youth and their subsequent alleged killing have left many in shock, prompting students to also stage rallies in areas like Uripok, Old Lambulane, and Singjamei in the Imphal West district.
Earlier on Monday, in an effort to address public concerns, Chief Minister N Biren Singh’s secretariat issued a statement disclosing that the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has assumed control of the case.
Two Meitei youth, Phijam Hemjit (20) and Hijam Linthoingambi (17), disappeared on July 6 amidst heightened ethnic tensions in the state. Recent online images have raised suspicions of their deaths. One particularly distressing photograph that appeared on Monday depicted their lifeless bodies on the ground, with Hemjit’s head missing.
Currently, additional security measures have been implemented to ensure the prevention of further disturbances and maintain peace in the region.
