IMPHAL, Nov 29: Hundreds of internally displaced persons seeking to return at their homes on Saturday clashed with security forces in Imphal East district, officials said.
The displaced persons who have been staying at different relief camps marched towards their respective homes at Gwaltabi but were stopped at Yaingangpokpi, a few km from Gwaltabi.
Gwaltabi, located at the periphery of Imphal East district, was severely affected by ethnic violence in 2023.
The security forces stood in the middle of the road to prevent further movement of the agitators but situation became tense with advancing displaced persons prompting the security forces to fire several round of tear gas shells to disperse the agitators.
S Ibemcha Devi told reporters “government says normalcy has been restored in the state by way of holding the Sangai tourism festival. They why are we being not allowed to return to our homes.”
Situation continues to remains tense but under control, officials said.
IDPs attempting to their return at their homes have clashed with security forces on multiple times at Phougakchao Ikhai in Bishnupur district, Pukhao Terapur and Dolaithabi dam in Imphal East district since Sangai festival began on November 21.
(By Our Correspondent)
