Imphal: Tension gripped Manipur's Ukhrul district on July 25 after residents accused the Assam Rifles of abducting four local farmers. The incident unfolded around 5:00 PM near a cement factory in Hungpung village as the men returned from their paddy fields. The Hungpung Village Administrative Council filed a formal complaint with the Ukhrul police station claiming the men showed no suspicious behavior before being seized.
The detainees are Yuimung Khapai Shimray, 28, Shomi Shokchui, 38, Hungreithei Kasomva, 37, and Khuirami KSV, 36. Word of the detention spread quickly. Angry crowds gathered at S. Laho to block National Highway-202. They intercepted military vehicles and demanded the immediate release of the captives.
Violence broke out as the situation turned chaotic. Protesters and security forces squared off in Shokvao, Litan, and Shangshak Khullen. Witnesses claim the Assam Rifles fired tear gas and live rounds to push back the mob. Locals fought back, reportedly overturning security vehicles and dismantling barricades. One video captured villagers pleading for the return of the four men, with one voice heard stating that "the four detainees were handed over safely unharmed to the Tangkhul Naga Long through the chairman of Laho village."
The village council is now pushing for a full investigation into the actions of the soldiers. The Assam Rifles have not issued a statement regarding the allegations or the violence. Authorities continue to monitor the area as the community demands answers for the sudden, unprovoked arrests.
Comments