Imphal, July 28: Tensions have escalated in Moreh as the Kuki community has vehemently opposed the presence of state security forces in their area, resulting in a violent standoff. The situation intensified after an incident two days ago that led to clashes between civilians and security personnel in the Moreh Bazar area.
According to police sources, the state government decided to send additional security forces to Moreh following the recent unrest. However, the people of Moreh took a strong stance and blocked the advancing state security forces at Tengnoupal.
The root cause of the violence was sparked by an altercation that occurred during a curfew relaxation period. Allegedly, some women who were shopping for essentials in Moreh Bazar were confronted and physically assaulted by personnel from the security forces. Outraged by this incident, the women decided to protest by blocking the road to the market.
In a display of frustration, a group of individuals then set fire to abandoned houses that were previously used as transit accommodation by security personnel during their postings in the area. The situation rapidly escalated as tear gas shells were used by the authorities to disperse the crowd.
Amidst the chaos, some personnel from the security forces reportedly resorted to firing live rounds, leading to a volatile exchange of gunfire between the forces and the agitated crowd as the security forces claimed they were also shot at.
