GUWAHATI: A scuffle broke out Tuesday between security forces and
protesters
- seeking the
release
of six arrested in connection with last week's arms loot from the armoury of 5th IRB at Chingarel in Imphal East district - in Cheirap court complex in Imphal West district. Several
agitators
were injured after security personnel (including RAF) fired tear gas shells to disperse the crowd.
All accused - arrested last Wednesday - have been sent to judicial custody for 15 days, triggering the protest by family members who claimed that the six had been picked up by security forces while returning from work and arrested sans evidence. Manipur govt has set up a magisterial inquiry into the case and suspended seven personnel of 5th IRB for dereliction of duty.
The use of tear gas on the court premises evoked strong reactions. Vice-President of All Manipur Bar Association, Brahmacharimayum Supriya, said the act was illegal.
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