Sit-in protest continue
Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, January 11 2021:
Expressing the for a retial at a higher Court following the recent acquittal of former ADC Chairman, Lhukhosei Zou who was arrested on the charge of drug smuggling, the Kodompokpi Maning Leikai Women's Development Association and Coalition Against Drugs and Alcohol (CADA) Unit jointly organised a sit in protest at Mekola Bazar in Imphal West district, today.
Addressing the gathering, Dipanjit Ningthoujam, vice president of CADA said that the acquittal of Lhukhosei Zou reflects that there is a high possibility of serious lapses while framing the charge sheet.
He alleged that during the initial stages of investigation there was pressure from political wings, instances of replacing the 10, removing the chargesheet and elimination of drug samples.
This has led to strong suspicion that the case might have been tampered.
He appealed to the Government to take the case to a higher Court and award befitting punishments to those involved in the drug case.
Another protest was staged at Sagolmang Community Hall demanding re-investigation of a 2018 drug haul case.
Later, the protesters also took out a car rally at the surrounding areas of Heingang before concluding at Chingmeirong.
Speaking to media persons, one of the protesters said that the number of rehabilitation centres opening in the State is a clear indication that youth have easy access to drugs.
He also expressed desire for the State Government and the Civil Society Organisations to up its fight against drugs to save the State.
He also urged all to refrain from politicising drug issues.
Voicing the same demands, a memorandum was also submitted by representatives of All Manipur Women Social Reformation and Development Samaj, Thoubal Ima, AMKIL, Tammi Chingmi, THANIL, Khwairamband Nupi Keithel Semgat Sagatpa Lup, Nongpok Leingak Apunba Nupi Lip, Apunba Nupi Lup,(ANUL) Bishnupur, Nongchup Imphal Palem Ima Apunba Lup (NIMPAL), Ireipak Enaat Chanura Loinasillon (ECHAL) and Meira Paibi, led by Nupi Samaj president Th Ramani to the leader of Opposition, Congress president Govindas Konthoujam and K Ranjit.