Protesters and police clashed in Imphal, Manipur, India, on September 27, 2023, after two teenagers were killed in alleged police firing. The incident has sparked outrage and protests across the state, with many demanding justice for the victims.
The two teenagers, identified as 16-year-old Ningthoujam Rozer and 17-year-old Nongdamba Chingkheinganba, were killed on September 27 while they were returning home from a football match. According to police, the teenagers were riding a motorbike without a helmet and were asked to stop by a police checkpoint. However, the teenagers allegedly ignored the police and tried to flee, prompting the police to open fire.
The teenagers were hit by bullets in the chest and head and died on the spot. Police have claimed that the teenagers were involved in a criminal gang and were carrying weapons. However, the families of the victims have denied these allegations.
The killings have sparked outrage and protests across Manipur. Protesters gathered in Imphal on September 28 to demand justice for the victims. The protesters clashed with police, who used tear gas and water cannons to disperse the crowd. Several people were injured in the clashes.
The Manipur government has imposed a curfew in Imphal and surrounding areas to prevent further violence. The curfew will be in effect from 6 pm to 6 am.
The killings have also sparked protests in other parts of India. Protesters in Delhi, Mumbai, and other cities took to the streets to demand justice for the victims. The protests have also raised concerns about police brutality and extrajudicial killings in India.
Impact of the killings
The killings of the two teenagers have had a devastating impact on their families and friends. The families of the victims are demanding justice and accountability from the police. The killings have also raised concerns about the safety of young people in Manipur.
The killings have also had a negative impact on the economy of Manipur. The curfew has forced many shops and businesses to close, and the protests have disrupted transportation and other essential services. The killings have also tarnished the image of Manipur and made it difficult to attract investment and tourism.
What can be done?
The Manipur government needs to take immediate steps to investigate the killings and bring those responsible to justice. The government should also provide compensation to the families of the victims.
The government should also take steps to improve police-community relations and to prevent future extrajudicial killings. The police need to be trained on human rights and on how to use force proportionately and responsibly.
The government should also invest in education and job creation in Manipur to provide young people with alternatives to crime and violence.
Creative response
The killings of the two teenagers are a tragedy. It is important to remember that these were young people with their whole lives ahead of them. Their deaths have left a void in the lives of their families and friends.
The killings have also raised important questions about police brutality and extrajudicial killings in India. It is important to hold the police accountable for their actions and to ensure that justice is served for the victims.
We need to work together to create a society where all people are treated with respect and dignity. We need to create a society where young people feel safe and have hope for the future.
