Violence rocks by poll bound Andro AC
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, April 11 2020: With Andro AC poised to go to by-election following disqualification of Th Shyamkumar from the membership of Manipur Legislative Assembly, conflicts and assaults which seem to be politically motivated have erupted within the Assembly segment.

Although the Election Commission of India is yet to fix any date for the by-election, some people who are said to be supporters of ex-Minister Th Shyamkumar allegedly vandalised 13 houses together with household articles at some localities of Andro last night.

Violence rocks by poll bound Andro AC

Altogether 13 houses and their household articles were vandalised by the group of people at Andro Mamang Leikai, Andro Awang Leikai, Sanapat, Chambra Leikai, Maringthel, Chingdong Leikai and Andro Khunou between 8 pm and 11.30 pm yesterday.

According to the victim families, a large group of supporters of ex-MLA Shyamkumar armed with lethal weapons including firearms came to Andro and attacked the houses by pelting stones.

They also vandalised whatever household items that came to their sight.

The victims expressed strong suspicion that Shyamkumar's younger brother, Andro Municipal Council Chairperson and Ward No 11 Councillor were among the group of assailants.

Apart from damaging doors, windows and walls of the 13 houses, four cars, two two-wheelers and some other articles were also vandalised, said the victims.

One Ch Shyambabu of Andro Maringthel said that his son Mani suggested some supporters of Shyamkumar last afternoon to keep social distance and distribute potable water at the relief camp opened in connection with the COVID-19 pandemic.

"Taking undue advantage of this humble suggestion, some supporters of the ex-MLA came and demanded my son", Shyambabu said.

"Even as all rooms were being explored to resolve the matter through dialogue, the same group of people attacked our house at around 10 pm", he added.