Protest in Manipur's Churachandpur over arrest of two for vandalising PM's banners

Churachandpur/ Imphal, Sep 14 (PTI) A mob clashed with security forces in Manipur's Churachandpur district on Sunday, protesting the arrest of two youths for allegedly vandalising the banners and cutouts put up in connection with the visit of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, police said.

On the night of September 11, several banners and cutouts put up at Pearsonmun and Phailien Bazaar were vandalised. In connection with that incident, several youths were picked up by the police. While all of them were released after questioning, two youths were arrested.

Demanding their immediate release, a mob started a demonstration near the Churachandpur police station. The situation subsequently escalated, and they hurled at the security forces.

Police said they were trying to bring the situation under control.

Modi visited the state on Saturday for the first time after ethnic clashes broke out between Kukis and Meiteis in May 2023. He addressed a public rally in Churachandpur, promising to make the state a "symbol of peace".

He also met the people affected by the violence in the district and unveiled a slew of developmental projects. PTI CORR SOM