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Suspense Crime, Digital Desk : The ongoing unrest in India's northeastern state of Manipur has reached a new level of desperation, as women protesters recently threatened to set themselves on fire. This extreme act was a protest against the arrest of five individuals who were apprehended with sophisticated weapons while dressed in police uniforms.

The dramatic incident took place in Imphal West, a district within Manipur. A group of "Meira Paibis" – highly respected women activists and community guardians in Meitei society – had gathered to demand the unconditional release of the five arrested men. In a shocking move, some of these women reportedly doused themselves with petrol, threatening self-immolation if their demands were ignored.

According to security forces, which include the army and local police, the five individuals arrested were not only in illegal possession of weapons and impersonating police officers but were also allegedly involved in extortion and had fired upon security personnel. These arrests were part of operations aimed at controlling the widespread violence that has gripped the state.

Fortunately, quick intervention by security personnel on the scene managed to de-escalate the volatile situation, preventing any of the protesters from carrying out their threats and harming themselves. However, this incident starkly highlights the profound anger and fragile nature of the current situation in the region.

In an effort to maintain law and order amidst these escalating tensions, authorities have reimposed a full curfew in both Imphal East and Imphal West districts.

This protest is the latest development in a protracted ethnic conflict, primarily between the Meitei community, who are predominant in the Imphal Valley, and the Kuki tribal community, who largely inhabit the surrounding hill districts. The violence, which first erupted in early May, has tragically led to over 175 deaths, left many injured, and displaced tens of thousands of people, causing significant destruction and deepening the divisions between the communities. The situation remains precarious, with security forces working to restore lasting peace.


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