Many protest CM's resignation, demand lifting of President's Rule
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, February 16 2025: A mass protest demonstration was held at Kongpal Iranpham Thongkhong in Kshetrigao AC today, demanding the lifting of the President's Rule in the State and the immediate appointment of a leader to resolve the ongoing crisis.

Notably, following days of political scuffles among ruling MLAs and just a day ahead of the 7th session of the 12th Manipur Legislative Assembly, Chief Minister N Biren Singh resigned on February 9, which was accepted by the Governor the same evening.

In response to N Biren Singh's resignation and the imposition of President's Rule, people in the valley have been protesting, demanding the appointment of a new leader.

Today's protest demonstration witnessed massive participation from Meira Paibis and youths of Kongpal Naoroibam Leikai, Kongpal Kshetri Leikai, Kongpal Chanam Leikai, Kongpal Mutum Leikai, Kongbal Sabal Leikai, Kongpal Khaidem Leikai, Porompat Muslim, Top Khongnang Makhong, Porompat Thawanthaba Leikai and nearby areas.

The protestors shouted various slogans and displayed placards with the writings such as, "Stop poppy plantation in Manipur", "Save the indigenous people of Manipur", "Take appropriate action against the 10 Kuki MLAs threatening the integrity of Manipur", "Revive Government of Manipur", "Withdraw PR from Manipur", etc.

Speaking by the sideline of the protest, Laikhuram Bimola Devi, general secretary of Puri Puraba Nupi Lup Kongpal Khaidem Leikai, said that thousands of people belonging to the Meetei community have been displaced and many precious lives have been lost since the outbreak of the conflict in Manipur on May 3, 2023 .

"Many village volunteers are still camping in the cold winter to defend innocent and helpless villagers from the attacks of Kuki militants", said Bimola while adding that the resignation of N Biren Singh was ill-timed as the conflict is still without any solution.

She asserted that the imposition of President's Rule in the State has created fear and apprehension among the public and village volunteers about their future.

"This is not the right time for a power struggle.

All the ruling MLAs should prioritise solving the ongoing crisis instead of fighting for leadership", she added.

Bimola also appealed to all the MLA to elect a competent leader of the Government who will work to protect the people and restore peace in Manipur.

Meanwhile, the Marisuba Khwairamband Ema Keithel Lup has decried the ongoing political turmoil in the State following the resignation of Chief Minister N Biren Singh.

In a release, Marisuba Khwairamband Ema Keithel Lup stated that the Opposition and ruling party should unite to work out a solution instead of engaging in a political game in pursuit of the Chief Minister's chair.

The Lup also urged all the legislators to forgo their personal interest and do what is right for the people of Manipur.

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