Singda Road blocked in protest against the arrest
Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, March 25, 2013:
Womenfolk of Kadangband, Phayeng, Kangchup and nearby localities today blocked Singda Road in protest against the arrest of a man who is said to be a rickshaw puller by Assam Rifles personnel.
Ningthoujam Lairenjao (45) s/o Ahanjao of Kadangband was picked up by a team of 10 Assam Rifles personnel posted at Kangchup water supply plant in the intervening night of March 23 and 24. According to the wife of Leirenjao, N Mani Devi, a team of Manipuri speaking Assam Rifles personnel barged into their house that night and took away her husband.
She denied the allegation levelled against Leirenjao that her husband is a PLA cadre and a huge cache of arms were recovered from him.
She also appealed the Assam Rifles and Manipur Police authority to release her husband immediately.
Representative of Kadangband Part-II Meira Paibi, H Lata said that Leirenjao is a rickshaw puller since past 10 years and he does not have any connection with any underground outfit.
She added that Leirenjao was handed over to Lamshang Police Station at around 5.30 pm yesterday.
Strongly condemning the incident, Ireng Women Society Secretary Daipuilu said that any person of Singda and Kadangband areas could face the same fate as Leirenjao if AR personnel continue levelling false charges to villagers.
Demanding unconditional immediate release of Leirenjao, Daipuilu also demanded for a clarification regarding the arrest of Leirenjao from the Post Commander of Kangchup Water Supply Post at the earliest.
Womenfolk of Kadangband Part-I and II, Phayeng, Kangchup and volunteers of Ireng Women Society and Singda Kuki Women Society took part in the agitation.