Meira Paibis demand release of VVs
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, February 15 2025: Vehemently condemning the killing of a village volunteer at Salungpham by security forces on December 14 last year, All Kiyamgei Nupi Chokhat Thourang Lup staged a protest demonstration at Kiyamgei Mamang Leikai Meira Shang yesterday.

Apart from condemning the killing of the village volunteer, the protesters demanded unconditional and immediate release of all the village volunteers arrested by police and complete repeal of AFSPA 1958 from Manipur.

Speaking to media persons, All Kiyamgei Nupi Chokhat Thourang Lup joint secretary Oinam Leibakleima denounced the Government's handling of the prolonged conflict which has been going on for more than 20 months.

Questioning the logic of pulling up village volunteers who were only defending innocent and helpless villagers, she said, "It would be wrong and gross injustice if all the youth who took up arms in self defence are assumed and declared as outlaws" .

She also urged the authorities concerned to take strong action against all the police personnel involved in the killing and release the six village volunteers without any condition at the earliest.

Referring to the political stalemate in Manipur concerning the delay in choosing N Biren Singh's successor, she maintained that such a situation will add to the suffering of the people.

Furthermore, Leibakleima appealed to all the MLAs to stop their political games and work together to restore peace & normalcy in Manipur.

Placards with the writings such as, "We condemn killing of Village Volunteers", "Release Village Volunteers without any condition", "Repeal AFSPA, 1958", etc were used extensively at the protest.

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