Violence Erupts in Imphal as Protests Intensify Over Tragic Bomb Blast Deaths

Tensions in Imphal have escalated following the tragic deaths of two children in a bomb blast, leading to violent protests and clashes with security forces. Demonstrators defied curfew orders during a torch rally, resulting in confrontations that saw the use of tear gas by law enforcement. Meanwhile, the Manipur Police have arrested multiple individuals for curfew violations. A candlelight vigil was also held in Ukhrul to honor victims of a recent ambush. The situation remains tense as civil society groups condemn the violence.

By Narendra Chaudhary Apr 21, 2026, 10:35 IST

Protests Turn Violent in Imphal

Imphal: Demonstrators protesting the tragic deaths of two children in a recent bombing incident clashed with law enforcement during a torch-lit rally in Imphal, according to police reports.

The fatal explosion occurred on April 7 in Tronglaobi, Bishnupur, resulting in the loss of two young lives. Since then, daily protests have erupted across the Imphal Valley districts.

On Monday night, a seven-kilometer torch rally commenced from Mayai Lambi to Keishamthong in the Imphal West district. However, tensions escalated as participants clashed with security personnel, a police officer noted.

In response to the unrest, security forces deployed tear gas in the Keishamthong area after hundreds of protesters, defying a curfew, attempted to advance an additional 200 meters toward Keisampat, near the Lok Bhavan and the BJP state office.

Curfew regulations currently restrict movement in all five valley districts from 5 PM to 5 AM.

According to the officer, protesters hurled stones and iron pellets at the outnumbered security forces, putting their safety at risk.

In a related development, the Manipur Police have detained 19 individuals for curfew violations and other offenses, including obstructing roads and vandalizing public property in the Greater Imphal area. These arrests occurred in various locations within the Imphal West district on Sunday.

Additionally, a candlelight vigil took place in the Ukhrul district headquarters on Monday night to pay tribute to two Tangkhul Naga civilians who lost their lives in an ambush in the TM Kasom area on April 18.

Numerous civil society groups from both valley and hill regions have condemned the violent killings, asserting that the victims were targeted by Kuki militants armed with sniper rifles.