Churachandpur/Imphal: Tension flared in Manipur’s Churachandpur district on Sunday after locals clashed with security personnel during a protest demanding the release of two youths arrested for allegedly vandalising banners and cutouts put up ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit.
According to police, several posters and hoardings installed at Pearsonmun and Phailien Bazaar were defaced on the night of September 11.
Multiple suspects were detained for questioning, but while most were let off, two youths were formally arrested in connection with the case.
The arrests triggered an agitation outside Churachandpur police station, where a mob gathered demanding their release.
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The protest escalated into a confrontation, with demonstrators pelting objects at security forces. Officials said efforts were on to restore order.
Modi visited Churachandpur on Saturday in his first trip to the state since the ethnic conflict between Kukis and Meiteis erupted in May 2023, leaving more than 260 dead.
Addressing a rally, he pledged to transform Manipur into a “symbol of peace” and also interacted with victims of the violence before unveiling several development projects in the district.
