3 hurt in clash with police, 8 vehicles smashed
Source: Hueiyen News Service

Imphal, February 11, 2011: At least three people, including two women, were injured in a clash between police and an angry mob in Bishnupur today on the second day of road blockade imposed by residents of Nachou on the Tiddim road following the murder of a watchman of the Aircel mobile service.

Watchman, Khundrakpam Thoiba (28) of Nachou Kha Leikai kidnapped on February 2 last in connection with a monetary demand made to the Aircel company authorities was killed by KCP (MC) activists.

Police recovered the dead body of the watchman near the foothills of Naransaina village under Moirang PS of Bishnupur district.

Villagers of Nachou has been protesting against the killing since yesterday morning by putting up a blockade on the road.

This was intensified after the recovery of the dead body late yesterday evening.

Today, on the second day, protesters smashed windshields of at least eight vehicles, two passenger buses, a Maruti car, two Tata Sumo, two trucks and a scooter.

They alleged Aircel and police authorities of not taking up appropriate action to rescue or save the life of the kidnapped man.

"We have informed the Aircel company and police well in time for taking up necessary action to save Thoiba," a family member lamented.

They first informed the Aircel authority in Imphal for taking up necessary action to negotiate with the kidnappers and also lodged a complaint with the police with a prayer to rescue him.

But both authorities failed to initiate action, they alleged.

Villagers, who formed a JAC, are demanding payment of a compensation of Rs.15 lakh and a government job to a member of the deceased's family.

Until the demands are fulfilled, they will continue blocking Imphal-Churachandpur's section of NH 150.The villagers also said the dead body of Thoiba will not be taken back.

Meanwhile, police fired tear gas shells and used other mob dispersion devices to quell the blockaders leaving three of them with injuries.

They were evacuated to the district hospital at Bishnupur.

The situation was brought under control after a large police contingent was sent to the site to allow vehicles a free flow.

But tension still prevails.

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