IMPHAL, Aug 23: Two persons were injured during a protest demanding justice to rape victim Sakina near Irilbung Police Station today.
Laishram Ratankumar, 25, s/o Bihari of Urup Laishram Leikai sustained bullet injury at his left shoulder while he was at his home during the police firing to disperse the protesters gathered at Keirao intervillage road. He was admitted to JNIMS Porompat for treatment.
Keirao village road was blocked by the members of JAC Against Abduction and Rape of Sakina Bibi of Keirao Makting Mayai demanding the authorities concerned to book the culprits of the rape case.
The agitated members further carried out a protest rally up to Irilbung Police Station. The JAC leaders had talks with the officer-in-charge of Irilbung PS. However, the matter could not be resolved and as a result a confrontation between the police and JAC broke out.
The irate mob smashed the windshield of a van while another man returning from market was injured during the confrontation.
The police fired several rounds for about half an hour to disperse the mob. Several tear shells and mock bombs were also fired while trying to control the mob.
One of the protester stated that the police have so far arrested four suspects in connection with the rape case of Sakina. However, the vehicle’s owner and driver involved in the incident have not been arrested.
The JAC would launch stern agitations if the culprits are not punished as soon as possible, he averred.
On the other hand, Additional SP Imphal-East, Bir Babu stated that the police is investigating Sakina’s case and in due course of time the culprits will be punished. The misunderstanding between the JAC and the police is quite unfortunate, he added.