Imphal, 27 Sep: The law enforcement agencies fired tear gas shells and mock bombs as students indulged in violent protests for the second day on Wednesday against the state government’s failure to handle the killers of two students who went missing on July 6, 2023.

Over 20 students mostly girls sustained injuries in the police and para-military personnel action at different locations in Imphal city. On Tuesday over 60 protesters got injured in the police action.

Against the strong protests, the state government closed down the educational institutes for two days and the imposition of curfew in the Imphal West district has been shortened to 4 pm on Wednesday. Earlier, it was extended till 9 pm on Wednesday.

The clashes between the protesters and security agencies erupted at Moirangkhom, about 200 meters distance from Chief Minister’s Bungalow, Imphal. Earlier, the students gathered at the Hao ground about 2 km from CM’s office, and from there they started a peaceful rally.

The peace march turned violent when the police blocked the rally at Moirangkhom. During the clashes, at least 4 police personnel, received minor injuries. The reports of the protests have also been reported in Thoubal district.

At least 10 female students injured at Keishamthong side, Imphal have been brought to hospitals, while several others have also been reportedly injured in the same firing on the side of Moirangkhong, Imphal.

Meanwhile, Manipur Chief Minister N. Biren stated that the Government knew that a large number of people had turned out on roads in different places out of emotion and anger, after seeing the viral photographs of the two students. He instructed the security forces to have maximum restraint while controlling the mob and added that action would be initiated if security personnel used excessive action against the public, especially the students in controlling their agitation.

The Chief Minister sought the support and cooperation of the public in handling the current crisis and restoring peace in the State.