Sit-in demands release of arrested village volunteers
Source: Chronicle News Service

Imphal, January 13 2025: Bashikhong Panthoibi Apunba Meira Paibi Lup organised a sit-in protest at Bashikhong Keithel community hall on Monday, demanding that the government release the six village volunteers arrested by security forces on December 14, 2024, without any condition.

The protest is part of an ongoing agitation condemning the alleged targeting of village volunteers.

During the protest, Bimola Athokpam, spokesperson of the organisation, expressed deep concern over the actions of security forces.

She questioned whether the forces are eyeing gallantry awards by targeting village volunteers and criticised both the central and state governments for singling out Meetei volunteers while Kuki militants remained unchecked amid the 20-month-old crisis.

The protestors strongly denounced the police commando operation carried out on December 14 at Salungpham, Thoubal district, which resulted in the death of a youth and the arrest of six village volunteers.

They demanded immediate and unconditional release of the detained individuals, while warning of launching intense protests if their demands are not honoured.

Chanting slogans such as "We oppose killing village volunteers", "Stop arresting village volunteers", "Punish commando personnel involved in killing village volunteers", and "Repeal AFSPA from Manipur", the protestors condemned the continued crackdown.

They, also urged authorities to redirect their focus toward combating narco-terrorism instead of targeting Meetei communities.

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