Correspondent
IMPHAL, JUL 7: Women from Meitei, Naga, Meitei Pangal (Manipuri Muslim) and other communities on Tuesday staged a joint sit-in protest at Imphal’s Khwairamband Keithel, bringing business at the state’s main commercial hub to a standstill while expressing resentment over the prolonged Manipur crisis.
The protesters demanded abrogation of Suspension of Operations (SoO) agreements with Kuki armed groups, an end to what they termed India’s “proxy war” in Manipur, justice for civilians killed in the ethnic conflict, release of Naga and Meitei village volunteers arrested in connection with the violence, and a special session of the state Assembly to prepare a roadmap for restoring peace and normalcy. They also sought implementation of assurances given by the Governor during President’s Rule.
The protest was organised under the joint aegis of the Naga People’s Union Imphal, Imphal Naga Business Association, Foothill Naga Coordination Committee, Khwairamband Nupi Keithel (vendors of all-women-run market), Imagi Meira, Committee on Coordinated Response and Rehabilitation, and others.
Speaking on the sidelines, organisers demanded justice for Naga and Meitei victims, including six Naga hostages killed by Kuki armed groups, and urged the authorities to identify and prosecute those responsible.
They alleged the state and Central governments had failed to protect indigenous communities and called for impartial action to ensure justice for all victims.
Women leaders said participation by women from both the hills and the valley reflected growing unity in the demand for lasting peace