In Manipur’s Bishnupur district, a group of armed miscreants, detained by the Indian Army’s Mahar Regiment, was reportedly freed by women activists during a confrontation on Tuesday, according to the Manipur Police.
The Army had intercepted and detained 11 armed individuals, dressed in police uniforms, and recovered firearms, grenades, and ammunition from them. However, the situation escalated when Meira Paibis, a women’s group, intervened and demanded the release of the detainees and the seized weapons.
Meira Paibis’ involvement in the incident has sparked controversy, as the group has previously been criticized by the Army for disrupting peace efforts and accused of involvement in violence against women.
Despite efforts by the Army, the women’s group managed to snatch the detained individuals during a confrontation. The Army informed the district police about the situation.
Upon arrival, police were informed by Army personnel that the detainees were freed by the women despite their attempts to maintain control. Security forces, including the Rapid Action Force and local law enforcement, dispersed the crowd and brought the situation under control.
The Army then informed the district police about the situation. “On reaching, it was informed by the Army personnel that the 11 persons have been snatched by the womenfolk during aggressive confrontation with them despite their best efforts,” the state police said.
The recovered weapons and ammunition were secured, and legal action is underway.
“The recovered weapons and ammunitions were kept in safe custody,” the police said. “The mob was later dispersed and the situation was brought under control. Necessary legal action is being taken up.”
