Imphal’s student Uprising September 9 – Officials’ Jobs on the Line

IMPHAL , 09/09/2024 by Urnews7

Student Uprising Shakes Imphal: Officials’ Jobs at Risk

On September 9, 2024, Imphal witnessed a massive student protest that shook the city. Young people took to the streets in large numbers, voicing their anger over rising violence in Manipur.

Clash Near Raj Bhavan

The peaceful protest quickly turned into a face-off with authorities near Raj Bhavan. Students demanded action against those behind recent drone and rocket attacks on civilians in the Imphal Valley.

Key Demands

Protesters called for the removal of two top officials:

• Kuldiep Singh, the state’s security advisor
• Rajiv Singh, the Director General of Police

They also want 50 MLAs to step down, citing the absence of 10 Kuki-Zo lawmakers since ethnic conflicts began on May 3, 2023.

Push for Local Control

Students insist that the central government hand over control of the Unified Command to the state government. They also want “indifferent” paramilitary forces to leave Manipur.

Tensions Rise

As the protest grew, some students started throwing stones. Security forces had to step in, chasing and dispersing crowds. Videos of these clashes spread quickly on social media.

Widespread Protests

The uprising wasn’t limited to Imphal. Students across the Imphal Valley held rallies to protest recent violence. Nine people died and over 15 were hurt since September 1 due to drone attacks and long-range rockets.

United in Uniform

Despite school closures, students marched in their school uniforms. They held signs criticizing both state and central governments for failing to stop 16 months of violence.

More Demands

In Thoubal and Kakching districts, protesters also called for:

• Protecting Manipur’s borders
• Ending agreements with Kuki-Zo extremist groups

As protests continue, officials’ jobs hang in the balance. The coming days will be crucial in addressing the students’ demands and restoring peace in Manipur.