Campaign for ILPS gains momentum as UCM backs demand
Cops round up ILP campaigner
Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, July 08, 2012:
Inner Line Permit (ILP) system campaigner Kakchingtabam Birahari Sharma, who launched a fast-unto-death movement in demand of reintroducing ILP in Manipur, has been sent to judicial custody today.
The 73-year old Birahari, who is also one of the advisors of ILP spearhead FREINDS, was reportedly rounded up by a Singjamei police team on the intervening night (0020 hours) of July 7-8 from Kwakeithel Bazar, where he started the agitation on July 6. From the agitation site, the Thongju Part-II resident was initially put up at JN Hospital security ward and produced before the Court of Imphal West First Class Judicial Magistrate this afternoon.
The Court ordered judicial demand for Birahari on the charge of 'attempt to suicide' and subsequently sent him to Sajiwa Jail.
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Speaking to media persons near the JN Hospital Security Ward, Birahari suggested that the State legislators translate into action frequent pledges to protect Manipur by adopting a decision in the ongoing assembly session for implementation of ILP system.
While noting positive outcome in last evening's State Cabinet deliberation on the ILP issue, he affirmed that inspite of arrest the fast-unto death agitation would be sustained.
Maintaining that he has no close family members, Birahari hoped that his movement on ILP will provide secure environment to Manipur's future generation.
Conveying that he has no personal enmity against outsiders, the agitator explained that demand for ILP system in Manipur is to ensure protection of the indigenous people and preserve its cultural and traditional practices from alien influence.
He also stated that through implementation of ILP present trend of unrestrained influx of outsiders could be effectively tackled.