Manipur in Turmoil: Kangpokpi Turns Battleground as Ethnic Tensions Explode

Manipur - Kangpokpi, Manipur, witnessed an eruption of violence as protesters from the Kuki-Zo community stormed the Superintendent of Police's office. Demonstrators hurled stones and petrol bombs, leaving SP Manoj Prabhakar injured and vehicles damaged. The protest escalated as security forces retaliated with tear gas, intensifying the unrest in this volatile region.  

The Demands: Why Protesters Want Security Forces Out

The rally, organized by the Committee on Tribal Unity (CoTU), demanded the withdrawal of central forces from Saibol village. Protesters claim that the presence of these troops has aggravated tensions, accusing them of bias in the ongoing ethnic conflict.  

Shutdown and Blockades: Manipur Faces Economic Paralysis

In response to the clashes, CoTU announced a 24-hour shutdown and an indefinite economic blockade in Kuki-Zo-dominated areas. This has disrupted transportation and halted the movement of essential goods, adding another layer of crisis to an already fragile state.  

The Bigger Picture: Ethnic Strife Boils Over

The unrest in Kangpokpi is a stark reminder of the broader ethnic conflict in Manipur. Ongoing clashes between the Meitei majority and the Kuki-Zo minority have resulted in over 250 deaths and displaced more than 60,000 people.  

What’s Next? The Urgent Need for Resolution

As tensions escalate, the call for peace and reconciliation becomes louder. Without immediate action, the violence risks spiraling further, threatening the social and economic fabric of Manipur.