Call to protect integrity of Manipur, cancel SoO pact grows louder
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, May 25 2023: The demand for protection of Manipur's integrity and immediate abrogation of the Suspension of Operation (SoO) with Kuki militant groups is ever growing with more and more people coming out in support of the demand.

Neinasang (Study Club) today staged a sit-in protest at Tera Loukrakpam Leikai, Imphal West, demanding the State Government to take immediate action to restore peace & normalcy in Manipur.

At the sit-in, the protesters shared that many people belonging to the Meetei community have been displaced and are taking shelter at various relief camps after their houses were torched and vandalised by armed Kuki militants.

The protesters urged the Government to cancel the SoO pact with Kuki militant groups and award befitting punishment to all those involved in attacking innocent civilians.

Later, a memorandum was also submitted to the local MLA Sapam Kunjakeswor with various demands such as, Implement NRC in Manipur, Cancel SoO with Kuki militant groups, Construct fencing in Manipur-Myanmar international border, Include all communities of Manipur in same categories (either ST or general), All 50 MLAs should announce their stand, Safeguard Manipur's integrity, etc.

Meijrao Lakpa Development Club and Irom Meijrao Apunba Meira Paibi also staged a similar protest today at Irom Meijrao Maning Leikai.

At the sit-in, the protesters displayed placards and banners with the slogans such as, "Disqualify the 10 MLAs", "Cancel SoO with Kuki militant groups", "GoI should control Kuki SoO militants", "Implement NRC in Manipur", etc.

Meanwhile, Salai Apunba Nupi Lamjing Lup (SANULAL) in collaboration with Konthoujam Makha Sabal Leikai and Khabam Bamdiar Apunba Meira Paibi Lup also staged a sit-in protest today at Ima Petanga Community Hall.

At the protest, Ima Ibethoi, advisor of SANULAL, highlighted the suffering of the people who have lost their near & dear ones and have been forced to leave their home due to the recent turmoil of the State.

She urged the State Government to fulfil its responsibility to protect the people of Manipur at any cost.

Ima Ibethoi further asserted that all the 50 MLAs of the State should consider the aspirations of the people and take oath in front of the "KANGLA-SHA" to protect the integrity of Manipur and its citizens.

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