Imphal, May 07: Setting the record straight, the Working Committee of the Apunba Lup today declared that the protest rally planned on May 11 from THAU ground to Hatta Kangjeibung as well as the public meeting later, is not in any way connected with the decision of the Government to provide arms to the people of Heirok and Chajing.

On the other hand the rally is to protest the killing of innocent people by the security personnel as well as underground cadres, they maintained while interacting with the media today.

Briefing newsmen at the office of HERICOUN today evening, assistant co-ordinator of Apunba Lup, K Sunil said that the proposed rally has nothing to do with the decision of the Government to provide arms to Heirok and Chajing.

Sunil said that WCAL has met the Chief Minister twice to grant them permission to stage the democratic rally, but so far no response has come from the Government.

'However we still believe that a positive response will come from the side of the Government,' he added.

Co-ordinator of WCAL, Ph Debanand who was also present said that the rally is proposed to be held to denounce the growing culture of killing anyone without any trial.

Asserting that cases of people being eliminated by police and Central security force without any trial or without producing the accused before the Court has been on the rise, Debanand said that the usual practice is to level charges after killing the suspect.

Other than the security forces some armed organisations have also been killing anyone at their fancy and whims and levelling charges after the killing, said Debanand.

Such a situation is indicative of the total break down or absence of a Government which is there to protect the lives and properties of the citizens.

he asserted.

It is unfortunate that the Government has failed in its duty to protect the lives and properties of the citizens, noted Debanand and noted with concern the growing trend of the Government agencies picking on soft targets.

Putting it bluntly, the co-ordinator said that the Government should be held responsible for the chaotic condition today.

A political dialogue should be initiated with the underground outfits to bring an amicable solution to the volatile situation he said and added that the onus of initiating the dialogue should rest with the Government.