Manipur: Police Commandos Express Displeasure Through Protest, Lay Down Arms Over ASP's Recent Abduction

Police commandos in Manipur valley districts staged an unprecedented protest by laying down their arms on Wednesday (28 February), expressing disapproval over the abduction of an Additional Superintendent of Police and an attack on his home the previous night.

The armed members of the radical Meitei group Arambai Tenggol had attacked the residence of Imphal West ASP Moirangthem Amit, abducting him and one of his escorts, before both were rescued by security personnel and admitted to a private hospital.

The protest by the police commandos, stationed in districts like Imphal East, Imphal West, and Bishnupur, was not only against the assailants but also the public's alleged support for them as per a report by The Indian Express.

A top police officer explained that in situations involving the general public, the police cannot fully respond to perpetrators to avoid harm to innocent bystanders.

The protest aimed to pressure authorities to act against these anti-social elements.

The attack on Moirangthem came after the group's members were detained by police in connection with vehicle thefts. The protesting police personnel are not facing disciplinary action, as their protest is deemed justified.

Following the attack on Moirangthem's house, additional security forces were deployed, resulting in injuries to two individuals in the exchange of fire.

This incident follows a recent attack on the Churachandpur SP's office and the burning of the Churachandpur DC's office and residence, triggered by the suspension of a Kuki police personnel.

The Arambai Tenggol had previously displayed public support during a meeting at Kangla Fort in Imphal, where Meitei MLAs and MPs were allegedly assaulted, highlighting the group's growing influence.