Protests Erupt in Manipur Demanding Justice for Mortar Blast Victims

Protests have surged across Manipur as citizens demand justice for the children killed in a recent mortar blast in Bishnupur. Organized by civil society groups, these demonstrations have drawn significant participation, including many minors. The protests reflect deep community anger over the incident, which also left numerous others injured. Authorities have relaxed curfew measures to allow for public gatherings while maintaining restrictions during nighttime hours. The situation remains tense as security forces monitor developments closely to prevent further unrest.

By Narendra Chaudhary Apr 12, 2026, 14:04 IST

Protests Across Manipur for Mortar Blast Victims

Minors carrying placards and protesting for the children killed in the Bishnupur mortar blast in Manipur on Sunday (Photo: AT)

Imphal, Apr 12: Protests demanding justice for the children who lost their lives in the Bishnupur mortar explosion have intensified across various districts in Manipur, coinciding with the relaxation of curfew hours by local authorities.

A significant rally organized by Uripok Apunba Lup, a coalition of civil society groups, commenced from Lambui Khongnangkhong and proceeded towards the Bazar Overbridge, attracting a large turnout.

Many children joined the protests, highlighting the emotional weight of the tragedy.

Demonstrations were also noted along Airport Road in the Kwakeithel region. In Imphal East, rallies originating from Ukhrul Road, Tinset Road, and Pangei Road converged at Lamlong Bazar, where thousands gathered.

Further protests occurred in Sangakpham, Irilbung Bazar, Mayang Imphal, Kongba Nandeibam Leikai, and Yumnam Huidrom, indicating a widespread agitation across both Imphal East and West.

The focus of the protests was on seeking justice for the victims, with participants expressing strong dissatisfaction and demanding accountability.

“We, including residents of Uripok, mothers, and community organizations, are rallying to seek justice for the two minors who died in the mortar attack and to protest against alleged security failures by the CRPF,” stated the general secretary of Uripok Apunba Lup.

In response to the ongoing situation, district magistrates of Imphal East, Imphal West, and Bishnupur have eased curfew restrictions from 5 am to 3 pm to allow for public movement and essential services.

However, prohibitions remain in effect from 3 pm to 5 am, including bans on unlawful gatherings and the possession of weapons, sticks, stones, or explosives.

Authorities confirmed that essential services such as healthcare, electricity, water supply, banking, media, and telecommunications are exempt from these restrictions.

The protests were sparked by a recent incident in the Tronglaobi area of Moirang in Bishnupur district, where two minors were reportedly killed in a mortar shell attack, which also injured at least 25 others, leading to widespread outrage.

Security forces have been deployed in sensitive locations and are closely monitoring the situation to prevent further escalation.