Sit in protest
Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, April 03 2013:
Apprehensive that their settlement area would be affected by the proposed South East Asian rail link with India, residents of Maklang Makha Leikai staged a sit-in protest today under the auspices of Railway Affected Homeland Area, Maklang Makha Leikai.
Although wholeheartedly welcoming the rail link project, the protesters categorically asserted that they are against any move that could cause their permanent displacement.
They also demanded that the railway passes through open space near the vicinity of Maklang.
The 26 km long railway from Tupul to Imphal Station is said to pass through human settlement area of Maklang Makha Leikai then Gokulchand High School of Awang Khunou Lamkhai, Konthoujam Mamang Leikai, Malom Hawairou Maning, Ahallup and Bamdiar.
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Convenor of Railway Affected Homeland Areas, Khuraijam Ram Singh said vast track of land would be usurped for the construction of the railway tracks.
He appealed the authority concerned not to uproot homesteads of Maklang area.
Ram Singh further warned of launching intense form of agitation if their appeal is not heard by the authority concerned.
Participating in the sit-in, member of Awangkhunou Zilla Parishad, Mutum (O) Sanahanbi assured the villagers that she would extend possible measures to thwart possible displacement of the villagers by the rail line.