Kuki protesters clash with forces over Shah's free movement order

Clashes broke out between Kuki demonstrators and security forces in Manipur's Kangpokpi district on Saturday after police fired tear gas shells to disperse protesters opposing Union home minister Amit Shah's directive allowing free movement across the state.

- Press Trust of India

IMPHAL:

Several protesters were injured in the incident, people aware of the matter said. The situation worsened when protesters set fire to private vehicles and attempted to stop a state transport bus traveling from Imphal to Senapati district.

Protesters also burnt tyres along the NH-2 (Imphal-Dimapur highway) and gathered in the middle of the roads to stop any movement of state government vehicles.

The protest was also directed against the peace march by the Federation of Civil Society (FOCS), a Meitei body.

The peace march that was underway in more than 10 four-wheelers was, however, stopped by security forces at Sekmai on way to Kangpokpi district.

Police had earlier said they have been told to stop the march as they did not have permission.