Anticipating the 5th session of the 12th Manipur Legislative Assembly to take a final verdict on the ongoing conflict, several people in various corners of the Imphal valley on Tuesday staged sit-ins demanding the legislatures to revoke SoO with Kuki militants and take affirmative security measures forgoing the central paramilitary forces.
The protestors unanimously warned the legislature of intense stir if they failed to abide by the people’s precedent.
Protestors held various placards demanding the abrogation of the SoO with Kuki militants, removal of the central forces and usher peace and security in Manipur.
Some locations where the sit-ins were staged include Uripok area, Phayeng, Leirenkabi, Heibongpokpi, Tera Urak, Lamlongei, Lambal, Sanjenbam, Keishampat Kangabam Leikai, Waheng Leikai, Wangkhei and many more.
Speaking to media on the sidelines of the protest at Uripok, a member of Uripok Nupi Apunba Lup (UNAL) expressed discontentment over the state government’s failure to rein in even after numerous appeals from the people.
“The conflict is about to complete in one year but we have not seen any feasible actions from the authorities till now. This is a worrisome situation as the legitimacy and authority is in the spotlight,” she said.
She stated that the abrogation of SoO would be detrimental to the Kuki militants as the authorities would gain upper hand in dealing with them.
“The militants have been at the forefront since the day of the conflict. Keeping the SoO alive is no longer an option as such we appeal to authorities to cut ties,” she said.
She further demanded the legislatures to table and pass a unanimous decision to revoke the Suspension of Operation (SoO) and also resolve other crisis related issues during the assembly sitting.
Failure to do so may enrage the people and erupt untoward incidents, she added.
