UKHRUL: At least twenty-two Tangkhul Naga Meira Paibis (women torch bearers) were reportedly injured during a confrontation with the Assam Rifles in Ukhrul District, Manipur, at around 3:30-4:00 PM today. According to reports from the Ukhrul District Hospital, all twenty-two injuries have been confirmed.
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The incidents took place in two separate locations: one in New Haven, under the jurisdiction of Shokvao village, and the other in Finch Corner, under the jurisdiction of Shangshak village. The injured individuals are currently receiving treatment at the Ukhrul District Hospital.
Sunday’s incident allegedly occurred under the command of Commanding Officer Sunil Singh of the 40th Assam Rifles Battalion, Shangshak, according to sources associated with the protest.
Additionally, it was reported that the president of the Katho Katamnao Long (Katho Student Union), Mathotmi Kasar, was targeted and beaten by the Assam Rifles personnel.
In a widely circulated video on social media, Assam Rifles personnel were seen lathi-charging the women torch bearers, and several rounds of ammunition were reportedly fired during the confrontation.
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Sources indicated that the clash at New Haven (Shokvao Village) occurred when the women demanded that the Assam Rifles vacate an outpost established in their village without proper approval. Villagers have previously urged the Assam Rifles personnel to leave their jurisdiction on multiple occasions.