Imphal: Security forces fired tear gas shells and mock bombs at protesters in Imphal on Sunday. The crackdown occurred at the Konung Mamang traffic point. Two people sustained injuries during the scramble. The demonstrators, led by the Women Wing of the Campaign for Just and Fair Delimitation, launched their march from the Citizens Club in Soibam Leikai.
Protesters wanted an audience with Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand. They sought a firm government response regarding the National Register of Citizens. Officials denied the group an appointment. The crowd refused to leave, prompting the police action.
The group demands the state delay Census operations in Manipur. They insist the government update the NRC using 1951 as the base year first. They also want a total freeze on Census work until all internally displaced persons return to their original homes. The protesters set a September 30 deadline for the state government to convey their stance to the Centre.
Women Wing JFD Manipur Convenor Sumati Sougrakpam condemned the state leadership. She said the refusal to meet and accept their memorandum was "unfortunate." Protesters argue the state has not provided formal backing for the 1951 base year despite repeated requests to the central government. The group now calls for public support to keep the agitation alive until the government provides a written assurance.
Updated at 28th September 2026 at 10:30am
Security forces detained several participants at the Konung Mamang traffic point during the confrontation. While the state government previously issued a gazette notification to defer Census work, protesters pointed out that officials have yet to issue a formal decision regarding the 1951 base year.
Organizers noted that more than a month has passed since the state government reiterated its request to the Centre for NRC updates, but there has been zero official communication from New Delhi on the matter.
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