Imphal, September 09, 2009: Sustaining the public movement in denunciation of the July 23 BT Road firing and demanding resignation of the Chief Minister O Ibobi Singh on moral ground, a large number of women protestors attempted to storm office of the manipur Pradesh Congress Committee (MPCC) today.

Protestors confront security personnel at the entrance gate of Congress Bhavan

After a brief scuffle broke out between the protestors and security force personnel deployed at the Congress Bhavan entrance gate, six of the protestors were allowed to meet MPCC president Gaikhangam.

Apparently getting a tip-off that the congress Bhavan might be targeted by agitators, security personnel in adequate strength were seen keeping vigil at the gate that used to be kept open on other days.

earlier, entry to the Congress Bhavan was allowed only on producing identification documents.

Inspite of the strong security measures, women-folk from various directions moved in to their intended target at around 3.30 pm and upon nearing the closed gate raised slogans demanding resignation of the Chief Minister, punishment of police commandos involved in the BT Road firing, repeal AFSPA etc.

Amid the commotion and mild lathi-charge by the security personnel ensued another contingent of the police force along with top ranking officials arrived at the scene and pacified the mob.

According to a representative allowed to meet the MPCC chief, Gaikhangam assured to convey grievances of the protestors to the Central leaders.

Regarding demand for resignation of the Chief Minister, she quoted Gaikhangam as saying that it all depends on decision of the Central Government and that MPCC's power on the issue is insignificant.

Besides conveying to the women delegate that the public demands would be discussed at a meeting of Congress legislative party, the MPCC chief reportedly disclosed that weekly report on the BT road issue is being sent to the Central Government.

The representative, however expressed strong dissatisfaction at the alleged lack of commitment on the part of Gaikhangam and insisted that agitations would continue till the public demands are honoured.

A similar scene also unfolded at the Jiribam office of the Congress unit today afternoon.

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