Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, August 20:
Even as 'Mipal Tangdaba Khongjang' (emancipation movement) supporters began enforcing boycott/ban of goods produced beyond the North Eastern region, several Organizations pledging support to the agitation also condemned Ministers and MLAs for non-cooperation to the people's movement.
Heeding the ban call of Apunba Lup, activists of Sagolband Apunba Nupi Lup confiscated and burnt cold drinks, bottled waters and fruit drinks at 4.50 pm today.
The boycott call is given as part of the ongoing agitation to demand withdrawal of AFSPA, punishment of security personnel involved in the killing of Pastor Jamkholet Khongsai and Thangjam Manorama Devi.
Press statements released by several voluntary and women organizers affirming to prohibit sale and use of the banned items also warned shopkeepers within their jurisdiction against defying the boycott Gall.
The bodies are Southern Imphal Youth Welfare Organization (Mongshangei), Youth Council Manipur (Konjeng Leikai), Haobam Marak Keisham Leikai Meira Paibi Association, yaipha Lamjing Nupi Lup (Ningthemcha Karong) and Women Welfare Association (Mongshangei Mayai Leikai).
On the other hand, Southern Imphal Youth Welfare Organization, Mongshangei pledging support to the ongoing agitation also decried partial lifting of AFSPA terming the decision as pursuing divide and rule policy.
Denouncing security excesses to foil democratic form of agitation Youth Council Manipur, Konjeng Leikai observed that Ministers and MLAs need not continue to cling onto their posts if they could not protect the people from the cruelty of security force personnel.
Reminding the politicians that enough false promises have been made, the Council contended that it would wiser to resign rather than wait for the people's wrath to fall upon them.
Detention of agitation spearhead leaders would not solve the impending crisis but would only vitiate the already tense situation, asserted Haobam Marak Keisham Leikai Meira Paibi Association adding that the elected legislators deserve to be taught a fitting lesson for failure to protect the citizens and acting against the people's wishes.