Manipur Violence – Fresh Unrest Erupts in Churachandpur Over Deputy CM Oath
Manipur Violence – Fresh clashes broke out on Thursday in Manipur’s Churachandpur district after protests escalated against the swearing-in of Nemcha Kipgen and Losii Dikho as the state’s new Deputy Chief Ministers. The unrest unfolded amid heightened political sensitivities in the region, with security forces and demonstrators confronting each other in public areas.
Protests Gather Momentum in Churachandpur
The demonstrations were primarily directed at Nemcha Kipgen, a local MLA, for joining the BJP-led government as Deputy Chief Minister. Protesters assembled near Tuibong Bazaar, where they blocked roads and set fire to discarded materials, including tyres, as a sign of defiance. Slogans critical of Kipgen echoed through the area, reflecting deep-seated anger among sections of the local population.
Authorities said the gathering quickly swelled beyond expectations, drawing a crowd significantly larger than the number of security personnel initially deployed to the site. The situation remained volatile as demonstrators refused to disperse despite repeated appeals.
Clashes Erupt as Crowd Control Efforts Begin
Tensions intensified when security forces attempted to clear the area and restore normal movement. According to police officials, protesters responded by throwing stones at personnel, forcing security teams to take stronger measures to prevent the violence from spreading.
A baton charge was carried out to push back the crowd, during which two individuals sustained minor injuries. Officials confirmed that no serious injuries were reported, but the atmosphere remained tense well into the evening. Additional security reinforcements were rushed to the district to prevent further escalation.
Shutdown Calls Add to Uncertainty
The unrest coincided with calls for a complete shutdown in the Kuki-majority Churachandpur district. Several community groups had announced plans for a bandh on Friday, citing dissatisfaction with recent political developments. The shutdown appeal further heightened concerns over law and order, prompting authorities to remain on high alert.
Officials said the administration was closely monitoring the situation and engaging with community leaders in an effort to defuse tensions and maintain peace.
New Government Takes Shape After President’s Rule
The clashes came a day after Yumnam Khemchand Singh was sworn in as the Chief Minister of Manipur, following the revocation of President’s Rule. Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla administered the oath of office and secrecy to Singh at Lok Bhavan.
Alongside Singh, Nemcha Kipgen and Naga People’s Front legislator Losii Dikho were sworn in as Deputy Chief Ministers, marking a rare power-sharing arrangement in the ethnically diverse state. Kipgen took her oath virtually from Manipur Bhavan in New Delhi. BJP’s Govindas Konthoujam and National People’s Party leader K Loken Singh were also inducted into the cabinet.
The swearing-in ceremony took place just hours after central rule in the state officially ended. Manipur had been under President’s Rule since February last year following prolonged unrest.
Long-Running Ethnic Tensions in the State
Manipur has remained deeply affected by ethnic violence since May 3, 2023, when clashes erupted after a tribal solidarity march in the hill districts. The march was organised to oppose demands by the Meitei community for Scheduled Tribe status, a move that was strongly resisted by tribal groups, including the Kuki community.
Since the violence began, official estimates indicate that at least 260 people have lost their lives, including civilians and security personnel. Thousands of families have been displaced, with many still living in relief camps across the state.
Political leaders have repeatedly stressed the need for dialogue and reconciliation, but ground-level tensions continue to pose serious challenges to peace and governance. The latest unrest in Churachandpur underscores the fragile situation as the new government begins its tenure.