Sit-in protest against Article 371A
Source: The Sangai Express

Bishnupur, August 18 2018: A sit-in-protest was staged today at Moirang Keithel to stand firm against the possible extension of Article 371 A or any equivalent Act in Manipur subsequent to ongoing peace talk between Government of India and NSCN-IM which has beenjointly organized by Kege Moirang Kendra Apunba Lup, Iramdam Kanba Apunba Ima Lup Moirang, Moirang Women Upliftment Association and Moirang Keithel Phambi Ima Lup under the banner of United Committee Manipur (UCM).

In the sit-in-protest, a large number of women folks and shopkeepers participated by putting on hold their basic work while Ng Deba secretary organization UCM, Kh Athouba secretary general UCM, W Second president UPF, Ksh Somendro vice-president UCM and Y Surjit Khuman president Kege Moirang Kendra Apunba Lup also spoke on the occasion.

Besides, Members of All Manipur Muslim Development Committee also took part in the protest demonstration.

Speaking at the occasion, secretary general UCM Kh Athouba spoke on the consequences that would likely arise if 'Framework Agreement' has been put in place.

He also expressed apprehension on the report tabled by RN Rabi to a Parliamentary Panel that Article 371 A may be extended to Naga inhabited area of Manipur saying that it is a dangerous development for the people of Manipur.

He also said Manipur Government would be rendered helpless if such Act has been passed in the parliament.

This is a divisive policy of India Government to divide Manipur which was once an independent entity guarded both by the hill and valley people, he added.

We would be more than happy if the ongoing peace talk concluded peacefully and bring harmony and peace in Nagaland, however if the so-called peace talk resulted in distortion of territorial integrity of Manipur we will not accept it, said Kh Athouba.

Placards which read as "Territorial Integrity of Manipur cannot be divided", "Special Status cannot be granted to a particular community", "Long live Manipur", "Article 371(A) or any equivalent Act cannot be passed in parliament" were used during the protest demonstration.

Meanwhile, Apunba Nupi Lup Bishnupur, NIPCO and women vendors of Bishnupur market and shopkeepers also staged sit-in-protest at Bishnupur market under the banner of United Committee Manipur.

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