The New Nation - Internet Edition

Staff Reporter

At least 20 people, including seven policemen, were injured when the members of a human rights body clashed with the police outside the Indian high commission protesting the construction of Tipaimukh dam in India's Manipur state.

Witnesses said activists of 'Lamppost', a newly surfaced local rights group, tried to demonstrate in front of the High Commission at about 10:30 am.

On-duty Gulshan thana police requested the protestors not to gather near the restricted precincts of the foreign diplomatic mission.

Additional Deputy Commissioner (ADC) of Gulshan Zone Md Monir Hossain quoted the cops as telling the protestors to dissuade them from demonstrating there. "No demonstration is allowed inside the diplomatic enclave," police said.

"But the protestors swooped on the on-duty police and assaulted them with sticks, police said. Police charged with batons to disperse them. Additional police rushed in to bring the situation under control.

Seven police, including Sergeant Supreyo and Sergeant Selim Reza, were injured in a brief clash that ensued. Several protestors were also injured in the troubles.

Two of the protesters, including Lamppost general secretary Ashish, were picked up from the spot in connection with the incident

Political parties have joined environmentalists in the protests when government is preparing to send a parliamentary delegation, including experts to visit the site at Tipaimukh in India.