Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, Jul 31:
An explosive weighing 5 kgs was discovered at a place in Nongada under Lamlai police station today at around 7 am.
Before the bomb experts arrived at the spot, the explosive was set off safely by troops of 19 AR at around 9.30 am.
A PIB (DW) release said that a major loss to civilians was averted by the troops of 19 AR under the aegis of 10 Sector AR by neutralising an IED planted at a place in between Nongada and Leimakhong Mapan along NH-150.Acting on a specific information of UG cadres planting an IED, AR troops carried out a thorough search since the early morning during which the explosive device was detected and subsequently neutralised, it conveyed adding that two detonators were also used by the UGs to explode the device.
After the bomb was set off, AR called up all the Meira Paibis of Lamlai area and warned all the people of the area not to venture out after 7 pm.
To protest the conduct of AR, a large number of people of the area including Meira Paibis took out a public rally from Nongada to Lamlai in protest against the cynical threat of
AR.
The protesters also shouted slogans demanding repeal of Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act 1958 and withdrawal of the threat issued by AR.
Prior to the rally the people of Nongada, Kameng Khunjao, Chana and Leimakhong Lashing held a public meeting at 4 pm and passed four resolutions.
The resolutions included, appealing to all concerned not to plant bombs or open fire in civilian areas.
Anyone flouting this will be declared a terrorist, said the resolution adding that the people unanimously condemn the act of plating the
bomb.
The people also decided to bar the entry of strangers to Nongada, Kameng Khunjao, Chana, Leimakhong after 6 pm.
In case anyone wants to stay after the deadline, then necessary information should be given to the meira paibis and local people.
Violators should bear the consequences, it warned.
The meeting also strongly condemned a Major of 19 Assam Rifles posted at Yaingangpokpi who threatened them against submitting a memorandum to the Home Minister and even threatened to kill them.