Imphal: Several polling stations in the Inner Manipur constituency in few districts in the valley witnessed disturbing incidents of violence, creating chaos and concern among voters and officials alike. Incident occurred at a polling station in Thamanpokpi, situated under the Moirang Assembly segment, where miscreants allegedly opened fire resulting in voters running helter-skelter.
Reports indicates that the shooting incident led to panic among voters and officials present at the Thamanpokpi polling station.
Violence was also reported at the pockets of other polling stations such as Iroisemba polling station in Imphal West district, where Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) were reportedly destroyed, disturbing the polling process. Additionally, a polling booth in Khongman, Imphal East district, experienced disturbances, although the extent of damage or disruption caused was not immediately clear during the filing of this report.
Among the Phase 1 polls day, heated exchange between Police Officer and Inner Manipur Congress Candidate Dr. Angomcha Bimol Akoijam erupted as the Congress candidate expressed grave concern over alleged commotion, threats, and the forceful removal of his agents in a polling station in Imphal East at Kyamgei Heibong Makhong High School.
Dr. Akoijam, known for his vocal stance on various issues, reiterated his commitment to fair and peaceful campaigning. He has been emphasizing the importance of upholding democratic values and ensuring a level playing field for all candidates in the electoral process.
Here is a closer look at the Lok Sabha 2024 Polls in Manipur
Phase 1: April 19, 2024: 15 Assembly Segments will go to polls.
Phase 2: April 26, 2024: The remaining 13 Assembly Segments will conduct polls.
Which 15 Assembly Segments are voting in Phase 1 today? Heirok, Wangjing Tentha, Khangabok, Wabgai Kakching, Hiyanglam, Sugnu, Jiribam, Chandel (ST) Saikul (ST) Kangpokpi Saitu (ST) Henglep (ST) Churachandpur (ST) Saikot (ST) Singhat (ST).
Which 13 Assembly Segments are voting in Phase 2? Jiribam, Tengnoupal (ST), Phungyar (ST), Ukhrul (ST), Chingai (ST), Karong (ST), Mao (ST), Tadubi (ST), Tamei (ST), Tamenglong (ST), Nungba (ST), Tipaimukh (ST), Thanlon (ST).