Missing Kuki Men Found Dead in Manipur, Sparking Clashes and Demands for Action

What Happened

Tension gripped Manipur's Kangpokpi district on Sunday after the bodies of two missing Kuki men were recovered days after their alleged abduction, triggering protests and clashes. The deceased were identified as 20-year-old Paoginlal Hangshing and 21-year-old Tinginlun Chongloi. They had been missing since October 28 after being reportedly abducted by unidentified miscreants while travelling between Hengbung and Taphou Kuki village. Joint teams of Manipur Police, CoBRA, CRPF, Assam Rifles, and the Rapid Action Force found the bodies east of National Highway 2 during search operations.

Reactions and Protests

The recovery of the bodies led to angry crowds gathering when the Kangpokpi Superintendent of Police brought the bodies to the district hospital. Protesters attempted to storm the SP's office, prompting security forces to fire tear gas shells and live rounds into the air. Protesters retaliated by pelting stones and using slingshots, leaving at least three demonstrators injured. Meanwhile, the Committee on Tribal Unity announced it would not accept the mortal remains until five demands are met, including the removal of Deputy Chief Minister Losii Dikho from the state cabinet and the transfer of the case to the National Investigation Agency.

Context

Conflicts in regions like Manipur often involve complex ethnic tensions and demands for political accountability from various community bodies. Local groups frequently utilize shutdowns and protests to press authorities for swift legal action and security changes during civil unrest.