Manipur, Feb. 7 -- Decrying authorities' attempt to change the 18 Assam Rifles (AR) stationed in Sagolmang Khewa with 28 AR, villagers from various regions of Khundrakpam Assembly Constituency blocked traffic movement at Sagolmang Khew Bazar along Imphal-Saikul road on Tuesday.

The villagers cautioned authorities concerned not to proceed with the exchange and demanded that they must pull back all Assam Rifles from the area and deploy state forces instead if they were planning on forcing the exchange.

As such, the villagers announced a deadline of 12 hours for authorities to clarify their stance failing which would result in intense agitations from the people.

Speaking to the media on the sidelines of protest, president of The United Co...