Fresh Protests Erupt in Manipur Valley After Killing of Two Children in Tronglaobi Attack

A wave of fresh protests swept across Manipur’s Valley districts on Friday night, with tensions flaring in Imphal East as residents took to the streets following the killing of two children in the Tronglaobi attack. Tear gas shells and mock bombs were used by the security forces to disperse the crowd. 

Late-night demonstrations were reported from Khurai Lamlong Bazar, where large crowds gathered despite curfew restrictions. Protesters marched through the area, prompting a security response as the situation grew volatile.

According to officials, security forces used tear gas shells and mock bombs to disperse the crowd after clashes broke out. Several people were injured during the confrontation and were taken to the Jawaharlal Nehru Institute of Medical Sciences for treatment.

The unrest follows a deadly explosion earlier this month in Tronglaobi village in Bishnupur district. Suspected militants operating from nearby hill areas reportedly targeted a civilian home in the village.

Local accounts suggest the projectile struck a residential structure, triggering a powerful blast. “It hit the house directly… there was a loud explosion and the children died on the spot,” a resident said, describing the aftermath. The explosion caused significant damage to the house and left the surrounding neighbourhood in shock.

The incident has intensified anger across the Valley, with civil society groups calling for sustained protests. Authorities have since transferred the case to the National Investigation Agency for a detailed probe.

In an attempt to ease movement, officials have introduced limited curfew relaxations across several districts. Daytime restrictions have been partially lifted in Imphal East, Imphal West, Thoubal and Kakching, while movement in Bishnupur, the epicentre of the violence, remains tightly restricted to a shorter window.

Despite these measures, normal life continues to be disrupted. Protesters have set up road blockades at multiple points, including Kongba Bazar, Wangkhei and Kongpal in Imphal East, forcing vehicles to turn back and severely affecting daily commute. Educational institutions remain closed, and mobile internet services continue to be suspended across Valley districts, reflecting the fragile security situation.

Tronglaobi village lies along the edge of Bishnupur district, near the hill ranges of Churachandpur district, an area long considered sensitive due to its proximity to elevated positions reportedly occupied by armed Kuki-Zo groups.