Sun Sep 15 11:44:40 UTC 2024: ## Manipur Police Express Concern Over Use of Firearms in Protests, Urge Non-Violence

**Imphal, Manipur:** The Manipur Police have voiced serious concerns over the escalating violence during recent protests, highlighting the use of sophisticated weapons targeting security personnel. Deputy Inspector General (Range 1) N Herojit Singh emphasized the shift from traditional protest tactics to lethal methods, including stone-throwing, firing iron pieces from slingshots, and even automatic firearms.

“We have evidence of automatic weapons being fired during protests. In recent incidents, an officer and another policeman were injured by automatic weapon fire,” Singh stated. “In Kakwa, Imphal West district, bullet marks were found on our vehicles, indicating the use of automatic firearms.”

Singh asserted that police forces exercise maximum restraint while dealing with protesters, even in the face of such aggression. “We have not retaliated with firearms, but we have reports of protesters getting injured when we use minimal, non-lethal anti-riot measures,” he added.

The police are urging the public to refrain from using violence and instead resort to democratic and non-violent methods to express their demands. They have also requested media outlets to avoid live coverage of protests, which can incite further unrest.

Superintendent of Police (Imphal West) Ksh Shivakanta Singh appealed to community elders to help control demonstrators engaging in violent behavior. “Cooperation from the community will be crucial in managing the situation effectively,” he stated.

The police have detained individuals from outside localities who are participating in acts of sabotage during protests. “We want to remind the public that the police department’s duty is to maintain law and order,” said Singh.

He concluded by emphasizing the importance of maintaining law and order for the smooth functioning of society. “Without it, society cannot function. If conventional methods fail and alternative measures are used, it will be unfortunate for everyone,” he warned.

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