Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, July 18:
Categorically stating that there would be no let up in the current agitation until and unless the Armed Forces Special Powers Act is lifted from the State, representatives of the 32 organizations, spear heading the movement today made it clear that a torch rally will be staged tomorrow at 7 pm, to give more teeth to their demands.
Letting the darts fly against the inaction of the Government, the representatives said that the lack of any initiative from the side of the Govt to get the Act lifted even after the revolutionary (nude) protest staged by women folk in front of Kangla on July 15, betrays their lack of concern for the welfare of the people.
The activists further accused the Government of turning a deaf ear to the cries and wails of the people to revoke all black laws from the land.
Reacting to the statement made by the Chief Minister over the revocation of the said Act, the activists said that if the CM has any doubt about the wishes and aspirations of the people, then a referendum should be conducted to take a final decision.
The brutal killing of Th Manoram is a standing testimony of what the security personnel have been doing under the immunity granted by the AFSPA and it is surprising that the Government is still reluctant to lift the black Act, they said.
Stating that no stones would be left unturned to internationalize the issue, the activists appealed to all to extend their co-operation.
The activists also issued a clarion call to all and urged them to be ready for the torch rally planned for tomorrow at 7 pm.