Imphal: Security was tight after January 16 night's torchlight rallies in Imphal against any attempt at disintegration of Manipur with the police barricading entry points to the state capital on January 17, according to official sources.

Though no meeting or procession was scheduled, police and security men were deployed at all vulnerable points and entry points including Sanjenthong, Konung Mamang, Market Complex, Yaiskul, Sagolband and Maharani Thong areas as a precautionary measure, the sources said.

They said over 20 persons including two India Reserve Battalion men were injured during mob violence that broke out during the rally called by the United Committee Manipur, an apex body of social organisations.

The police had to fire rubber bullets and use teargas to bring the situation under control on January 16.

Meanwhile, social organisations demanded that the Centre clarify its stand on the territorial integrity of Manipur in the backdrop of the Naga peace talks between it and National Socialist Council of Nagaland – Issac-Muivah (NSCN-IM) leaders.

Manipur Ethno Heritage Council (MEHC) in a statement warned against "a one-sided decision" and said people were apprehensive of the outcome of Centre – NSCN talks and demanded that the Centre announce its stand on the territorial integrity of Manipur.

PTI