Mass Protests Erupt in Manipur Following Tragic Mortar Attack

In response to a tragic mortar attack that claimed the lives of two young children in Bishnupur, Manipur, thousands of demonstrators took to the streets despite a curfew. Organized protests erupted across five valley districts, with participants demanding justice and the arrest of those responsible. The All Manipur United Clubs Organisation led a significant rally in Imphal West, where children held posters of the victims. Tensions escalated as clashes occurred between protesters and security forces, resulting in injuries and fatalities. The community's outcry highlights the urgent need for accountability and peace in the region.

By Narendra Chaudhary Apr 9, 2026, 15:14 IST

Protests Against Mortar Attack in Manipur

Women protest against the killing in Bishnupur, one of the five valley districts. (Photo Credit)

Imphal, April 9: In a show of defiance against the curfew, thousands of protesters gathered across five valley districts in Manipur on Thursday, staging rallies and setting tyres ablaze in response to a mortar attack that resulted in the deaths of two children in Bishnupur district.

In Imphal West district, a large group organized by the All Manipur United Clubs Organisation marched from their office near Kwakeithel, condemning the killings and calling for the immediate arrest of those responsible.

Among the demonstrators were several children holding posters of the deceased minors. Their march was halted by security forces as they approached Kwakeithel.

Subsequently, representatives from AMUCO were escorted to meet Chief Minister Y Khemchand Singh to voice their concerns.

In Samurou, also in Imphal West, hundreds of protesters attempted to march towards the Chief Minister's residence but were blocked by police.

Protesters set tyres on fire and disrupted traffic at Moirang Lamkhai and Ningthoukhong in Bishnupur district, with similar incidents reported in Khurai, Imphal East, and parts of Thoubal and Kakching districts.

On the night prior, clashes erupted between protesters and security forces at Khurai Lamlong, where demonstrators threw stones, prompting security personnel to use tear gas to disperse the crowd.

Earlier, police apprehended three individuals suspected to be affiliated with the United Kuki National Army during operations following the incident in Tronglaobi. However, it remains unconfirmed if they were connected to the blast.

On April 7, a tragic incident occurred when a bomb was thrown at a house in Tronglaobi, killing a 5-year-old boy and his 6-month-old sister.

Following this, around 500 protesters attacked a CRPF camp near Gelmol, resulting in vandalism and the burning of security vehicles. In the ensuing chaos, three protesters lost their lives, and 30 others sustained injuries.