FOCS questions purpose of peace committee, Jiribam
Source: Chronicle News Service

Imphal, June 07 2024: Federation of Civil Society Organisations (FOCS) has condemned the abduction of a 60-year-old man on his way home from his farm in Leishabithol by armed Kukis near Khasiya Punji and subsequent killing at Mulargao hill, Jiribam on Thursday.

The Federation further condemned the burning of Meetei house in Nungkhal and the residence of ex-adhyaksha Kh Janki in Leishabithol.

In a statement released Friday, FOCS highlighted the efforts made by Jiribam district administration, district police, Assam Rifles, leaders of civil society organisations and community leaders by forming a peace committee to maintain peace and harmony in the district amid the conflict which has been raging in the state for the past one year.

The Meetei community had placed their trust on the committee.

However, people from the Kuki community have been continuously harassing the Meeteis.

It may be recalled that a Meetei driver was brutally assaulted in Keiphundai last year among other incidents.

However, the peace committee failed to take any legal action against the armed Kukis till date.

As such, there is suspicion whether the Meeteis are being slowly annihilated from Jiribam under the shroud of the peace committee.

Urging the Home Department to take immediate steps to protect the life and property of the people in Jiribam; the Federation cautioned that if the authority fails to do so, people cannot be obstructed from trying to defend themselves.

FOCS then appreciated the volunteers who helped bring out the Meeteis from Mongbung and also in setting up a relief camp at Chingdong Leikai Primary School.

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