Two missing Kuki men found dead in Manipur's Kangpokpi district
Clashes between protesters and security forces left three people injured after the bodies of two missing youths were recovered.
The bodies of two missing Kuki men, Paoginlal Hangsing, 20, and Tinginlun Chongloi, 20, were recovered on Sunday in Manipur's Kangpokpi district. The men had disappeared on October 28 while travelling between Hengbung and Taphou Kuki village.
A joint search operation involving the Manipur Police, CoBRA, CRPF, Assam Rifles, and the Rapid Action Force recovered the bodies east of National Highway 2 along the Senapati-Phaibung Road. Officials said search and combing operations will continue to find those responsible for the killings.
Tensions rose when the Kangpokpi Superintendent of Police brought the bodies to the district hospital. Protesters attempted to storm the police office, leading to confrontations with security personnel. Police used tear gas and fired live rounds into the air, while protesters used stones and slingshots.
At least three protesters were injured during the clashes and taken to a healthcare centre for first aid. The Committee on Tribal Unity (CoTU) announced it would not accept the mortal remains until five specific demands are met.
CoTU spokesperson Ng. Lun Kipgen demanded the removal of Deputy Chief Minister Losii Dikho from the state cabinet. Other demands include transferring Taphou Kuki village to Kangpokpi jurisdiction, removing the NSCN-IM's Huthrong Brigade from its Oklong camp, transferring the case to the NIA, and arresting those involved in the deaths.