Bid to remove Pambei-led UNLF camp opposed
Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, February 21 2024:
Pambei-led UNLF camp and cadres at Uyumpok Nongshum must not be removed, said Peace and Development Coordinating Committee (PDCC) .
The committee vehemently condemned Assam Rifles' alleged attempt to remove the cadres from the area.
At Manipur Press Club, Imphal today, PDCC president L Joy Meetei said Uyumpok Nongshum, Pukhao Terapur, Pukhao Shantipur, Pukhao Leitanpokpi and adjoining Meitei settlements under Khundrakpam Assembly Constituency have come under frequent attacks from Kuki militants.
The Kuki militants have launched multiple attacks since May 3 and burnt many houses displacing hundreds of the people.
The frequent attacks of the Kuki militants have caused fear psychosis among the people.
Amid such situations, the presence of the Pambei-led UNLF cadres is reassuring to the people, Joy said.
Removing the camp and the cadres Uyumpok Nongshum is against the wishes of the people, he added.
PDCC and the people have taken a strong stand to face any attempts to remove or shift the camp from the area, Joy said.
PDCC will support a rally scheduled for tomorrow at Khundrakpam area, he said.
The public rally will appeal the Central Government to scrap the Suspension of Operation (SoO) Agreement signed with Kuki militants.
The World Meitei Organisation has also reacted strongly against Assam Rifles' alleged directive to remove the camps of Manipur People's Army (MPA) of Pambei-led UNLF from Nongshum hill.
Questioning the motive behind such a directive, a press release issued by World Meitei Organisation (WMO) has urged the paramilitary force to refrain from mistaking Meitei's kindness for cowardice or foolishness.
WMO added that the directive is akin to adding fuel to fire and inviting a civil war in the State.
Stating that Meiteis would rather perish than live in subjugation, WMO appealed for a swift resolution to the issue.
Reaffirming their stance that MPA camps cannot be shifted from Nongshum hill at any cost, WMO warned that intense agitations will be launched in cooperation with the public otherwise.