Thousands march in Manipur’s Ukhrul and Kamjong demanding Assam Rifles pull‑out

Thousands of residents from the Ukhrul and Kamjong districts assembled on the streets of Manipur, voicing a unified demand for the Assam Rifles to be withdrawn from the state. The rallies, organized by local civil society groups, were marked by chants and placards urging the central government to reconsider the deployment of the paramilitary force.

Organisers said the presence of the Assam Rifles has heightened tensions in the region and they seek a peaceful resolution through their removal. Police officials reported that the gatherings remained largely peaceful, with no major incidents recorded.

The protests come amid a broader crisis in Manipur, where ethnic unrest has persisted for months. Authorities have not yet announced any concrete steps regarding the protesters' demand, and the situation remains under close observation.

Local leaders urged the state and central administrations to engage in dialogue with the community to address security concerns without the continued presence of the Assam Rifles.

The rallies underscore growing public pressure on the government to alter its security strategy in the volatile northeastern state.