Security heightened in Manipur's Lilong after protests against Waqf Bill turn violent

Manipur

A massive security cover was deployed on Tuesday after protests turned violent over Waqf Amendment Act in Muslim-dominated Lilong area in Thoubal district.

Vigil has also been heightened in parts of Imphal East district ahead of a planned “human chain protest” at Khurai Khumidok Bazaar on Tuesday against the Act.

“Security forces shall be equipped with anti-riot equipment including tear gas gun shells, canes, body protectors and helmets," an order issued by the Superintendent of Police (Thoubal) said.

The district magistrate of Thoubal on Monday imposed a prohibitory order in the Lilong Assembly constituency after a mob set afire the house of the state BJP minority Morcha president Sunday night.

The police said that a mob of around 7,000-strong, armed with sticks and stones, stormed into the house of Md Asker Ali at Lilong Sambrukhong Mamei, and set it ablaze.
The number of security personnel has also been increased at the residence of local MLA Abdul Nasir as a precautionary measure.
On Sunday night, the house of BJP Minority Morcha's Manipur president, Asker Ali, was set on fire in Lilong by a mob for allegedly supporting the Waqf Amendment Act.

Over 5,000 people participated in a rally that disrupted traffic on National Highway-102 at Lilong, while protesters scuffled with security forces in some areas, including Irong Chesaba, police had said.

The Waqf (Amendment) Bill was passed by the Lok Sabha on Thursday, and by the Rajya Sabha in the early hours of Friday after marathon debates in both Houses of Parliament.

(With PTI inputs)