A confrontation between locals of Kasom Khullen Sub-Division Range in Kamjong District, Manipur and Assam Rifles personnel stationed at Hongpei village escalated into a significant incident on January 11, resulting in the vandalism of the 40 AR camp.
Sources reported that the Assam Rifles personnel, accused of illegally occupying the Hongbei village area, allegedly detained vehicles carrying materials for the construction of a local individual’s house. This action triggered the anger of the community, which claims to have endured repeated harassment by the Assam Rifles over trivial matters.
The locals argue that their grievances, voiced by MLAs, civil society organizations (CSOs), and student bodies, have been ignored. “We have repeatedly requested them to stop harassing locals, but the Assam Rifles continued their actions despite numerous warnings,” said a local resident.
The situation reportedly reached a boiling point when the Assam Rifles personnel allegedly disrespected Phungyar MLA, Leishiyo Keishing further provoking the community.
According to Ukhrul Times report, the situation intensified when the Assam Rifles allegedly used live ammunition and tear gas to disperse the protestors.
In retaliation, the public vandalized the makeshift Assam Rifles camp at Hongbei village demanding the withdrawal of Assam Rifles personnel from the area.