In a strong show of opposition against any attempts to disintegrate Manipur and the arrest of village volunteers, a large group of youth and women took to the streets in a torch rally along Tiddim Road from Kwakeithel to Keishampat last night.

The rally, which started at around 7:30 PM, was participated in by youth and Meira Paibis (women activists) from Kwakeithel, Keishampat and surrounding areas. Imphal West district police personnel closely monitored the event, ensuring tight security throughout the course of the march. However, tensions escalated as the rallyists reached the Keishampat junction, where police blocked their path using steel barricades.

Despite the barricades, the crowd managed to pull them down and continue their march. As the protesters approached Paona International Market, police fired several rounds of tear gas in an effort to disperse them. Undeterred, the demonstrators regrouped at Keishampat junction, shouting slogans until around 9 PM.

Throughout the rally, protesters raised slogans such as “Don’t break apart Manipur”, “Don’t arrest village volunteers”, “Dismiss Security Advisor and DGP”, “Withdraw Central forces”, and “Long live Manipur”.

The situation remains tense as security forces continue to monitor the region amid rising public discontent.