Manipur: mob storms minister's house; protesters target MLA houses

Imphal: In violence-marred Manipur’s capital, protesters attacked and demonstrated in front of the homes of at least two state ministers and three MLAs on Saturday. They were acting, demanding justice for the murder of six people who were taken hostage in the Jiribam district.

They ransacked the houses of three of six legislators and set their properties on fire while security forces fired tear gas shells to disperse protesters in different parts of Imphal, PTI reported.

Following the mob attack on the legislator's houses, the Imphal West administration issued prohibitory orders in the district for an indefinite period. The administration also suspended internet and mobile data services for two days in Imphal West, East, Bishnupur, Thoubal, Kakching, Kangpoki and Churachandpur.

A mob stormed the residence of Health and Family Welfare Minister Sapam Ranjan in the Lamphel Sanakeithel area, a senior officer said. Lamphel Sanakeithel Development Authority's representative, David, told reporters, "Sapam assured us that the issues related to the killing of three persons will be discussed at a cabinet meeting and that the minister will tender his resignation if the government fails to honour the sentiment of the public."

Protesters gathered in front of the house of BJP legislator RK Imo (son-in-law of Chief Minister N Biren Singh). Those gathered demanded an "appropriate response from the government" over the killing of the six people and urged the authorities to "arrest the culprits within 24 hours", reported NDTV.

Protesters also stormed the residence of Consumer Affairs and Public Distribution Minister L Susindro Singh in the Khurai area in Imphal East district, police said.