Imphal, Jan 17: Indefinite night curfew was clamped from tonight in the entire Imphal municipal area after the Manipur government received reports that rallies and processions were likely to be organised afresh following last night's violent protests against "attempts to divide Manipur.” A senior police official said on condition of anonymity that the state government had received reports that rallies and public meetings might be held tonight which would pose security problems to the authorities. The curfew would be effective from 6:00 pm to 6:00 am.
Official sources said that curfew was also imposed following reports that there was likelihood of serious breach of peace, disturbance to public tranquility and grave danger to human lives and property by anti-social elements in municipal areas in Imphal east and west districts.
Security was tight after last night's torchlight rallies here with the police barricading entry points to the state capital today, the sources said.
Police and securitymen were deployed at all vulnerable and entry points including Sanjenthong, Konung Mamang, market complex, Yaiskul, Sagolband and Maharani Thong areas.
They said that over 20 persons including two India reserve battalion men were injured during last night's mob violence here at rallies called by the United Committee Manipur, an apex body of social organisations.
The police had to fire rubber bullets and use teargas to bring the situation under control yesterday.
Bureau Report