Violent Student Protests Over Ethnic Strife Rock Manipur

Manipur faced five-day internet suspension and curfew due to violent student protests against drone attacks linked to ethnic strife between Meitei and Kuki communities. The state saw police using tear gas and stun grenades to disperse protesters, while government and private colleges declare closures amid ongoing tensions.

Manipur is reeling from violent student protests over continued ethnic strife, resulting in a five-day suspension of internet services and an indefinite curfew in certain areas. The clashes stem from drone attacks believed to be conducted by Kuki militants, though the groups deny these claims.

Hundreds of Meitei students rallied against the drone attacks, demanding changes in leadership responsible for state security. Police used tear gas and stun grenades to break up protests, leaving 45 demonstrators with minor injuries. The unrest prompted the local government to shut down colleges for two days and enforce a curfew in the Imphal Valley.

The violence extends a year-long conflict between the Meitei and Kuki communities over economic benefits and government job quotas, resulting in 225 deaths and displacing 60,000 people. Despite the turmoil, authorities claim the situation is under control, but the state's leadership under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's BJP has yet to comment on the latest outbreak of violence.

(With inputs from agencies.)