Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, May 08:
Reacting strongly against the arrest of its president Sapamcha Kangleipal yesterday on charges of sedition, the Manipur Forward Youth Front (MAFYF) has demanded his unconditional release and alleged that the arrest violates the right to freedom of expression as enshrined in Article 19 of the Indian Constitution.
Speaking to newsmen at its office today, the secretary general of MAFYF, Ksh Premjit said that though India prides itself as the largest democracy in the world, in Manipur, the Government is acting just like dictators as in Iraq and Myanmar.
The arrest of Kangleipal on the basis of his statement given to the media during a briefing on May 5 as well as for organising a panel discussion on the decision of the Government to provide arms to villagers, violates the right to freedom of expression, guaranteed by the Constitution of the country, said Premjit.
The MAFYF leader also questioned, what action the Government has taken up following the seizures of arms from the quarters of MLAs in Babupara as well as against the Chief Minister who was accused of giving money to underground outfits.
Condemning the arrest of Kangleipal, the secretary general said that if Kangleipal is dubbed as an anti-social element, then what about the MLAs from whose quarters arms were seized as well as the Chief Minister accused of giving money to armed organisations, he countered.
To demand the unconditional release of Kangleipal, MAFYF along with the people will launch non-violence form of agitation from tomorrow, announced Premjit.
If the Govt still does not relent then intense form of agitation will be launched.
Meanwhile a number of meira paibi lups submitted a memorandum to CM O Ibobi today evening demanding the release of Kangleipal.
The memorandum said that the arrest of Kangleipal violates the Constitution and warned that if he is not released then MAFYF along with civil society organisations will be constrained a series of agitation.