3 Injured as Violence, EVM Destruction Plague Manipur On Voting Day

Imphal: Today’s voting in Manipur ended with a meagre 68% turnout, one of the lowest in the state’s history, overshadowed by incidents of vandalism, intimidation, and allegations of fraud.

Multiple instances of violence were reported across various polling stations. Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) were destroyed at several locations, including Bamon Kampu, Sekmaijin Khunao Mamang, Thongju, Iroishemba Mamang Leikai, Uripok, Khongman Zone-V, and Khurai Thongam Leikai’s S Ibobi Primary School.

Assaults and firing also marred the electoral process. Two individuals were assaulted at Arapati Maning polling station, while gunfire erupted at Moirang Kampu Primary School, Wangoo, and Thamnapokpi polling stations, resulting in injuries.

Additionally, allegations of proxy voting surfaced at Khaidem Upper Primary School polling booth, halting the voting process temporarily.

Inner Manipur Congress candidate A Bimol Akoijam intervened at one polling booth in Khaidem, attempting to address the chaos.

Despite security measures in place, Manipur’s electoral process faced significant challenges, raising concerns about the integrity of the democratic process in the state.