Churachandpur, Manipur – Violent protests erupted in Churachandpur on Saturday, teh day after Prime Minister Narendra Modi‘s visit, leading to a clash between local residents and police, and the subsequent arrest of two individuals. The situation de-escalated after a bail hearing was held for the arrested men and they were released later that evening.
The unrest stemmed from an incident on Thursday night where a group of residents tore down decorations erected in anticipation of the Prime minister’s visit and engaged in arson in the Pearsonmun locality. while tensions had appeared to subside following condemnations from local civil society organizations, the protests reignited, culminating in an attempt by a crowd to storm the local police station. Police responded with a lathi charge to disperse the protestors.
According to an official statement, authorities informed the crowd that the release of the arrested men would need to be pursued through legal channels. Following this, the men’s lawyer appealed to the district court, and a duty magistrate granted them bail.
The Prime Minister’s visit itself passed without incident. The incident highlights ongoing tensions within the region and the sensitivity surrounding high-profile visits by national leaders. Further legal proceedings related to the initial Thursday night clash and Saturday’s protest are expected.