SP warns groups inciting violence during protests
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, April 19 2026: Imphal West Superintendent of Police Kshetrimayum Shivakanta has stated that there are groups who supply lethal items, such as petrol bombs, kerosene bombs, catapults, and iron rods to incite violence during protests such as meira rallies.

Addressing a press briefing at his office today, he explained that Imphal city has been witnessing a series of protests since the bomb attack at Tronglaobi on April 7, which resulted in the tragic deaths of a baby and her five-year-old brother.

The SP mentioned that while some protests ended peacefully, others escalated into extreme violence.

SP warns groups inciting violence during protests

It is unfortunate that some people resort to violence during night protests, Shivakanta said and emphasised that security forces have been providing protection during peaceful protests.

He said that the recent torch rally organised by people from Kwakeithel side was allowed to proceed up to Keishampat Junction by security personnel, and it ended peacefully.

Saying that there are groups who intend to incite violence by exploiting night protests, such as torch rallies, the SP added that these mischief-makers bring petrol bombs and other lethal items such as iron pellets of 16mm to the protests and attack security personnel.

This group takes pleasure in inciting violence and resorting to firing slingshots at security personnel, Shivakanta added.

He said that injuries often occur on both sides when security personnel respond using legal means.

The SP said that the police encountered the supply of iron pellet used for taking slingshots at security personnel, along with other lethal items, during last night's rally at Sagolband.

Shivakanta further said that the police have received reports of protesters blocking passage to medical teams, ambulances, and patient parties.

There have been incidents of stones being thrown at ambulances, he said.

Appealing to the public to refrain from resorting to or inciting violence during protests, he emphasised that security personnel are there to safeguard the people.

Do not attack public properties, he cautioned, adding that the police will take appropriate legal action if these requests are not heeded.

The SP appealed to the public to extend maximum cooperation to the security personnel.