Mass sit-ins across Bishnupur demand action, justice
Source: The Sangai Express
Bishnupur, April 22 2026:
Widespread sit-in protests were staged across Bishnupur district on Wednesday, with demonstrators strongly condemning the April 7 bomb attack at Tronglaobi that claimed the lives of two children and the subsequent killing of three civilians during a protest, allegedly in firing by personnel of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) .
At Naranseina under Moirang Assembly Constituency, a sit-in demonstration was held at Naranseina Market Shed under the aegis of the local Meira Paibis.
Protesters denounced the twin incidents and demanded that the Government of India halt policies they alleged were detrimental to the indigenous communities of Manipur.
Speaking at the protest, Meira Paibi activist Salam Ibemcha condemned the incidents in the strongest terms, stating that the killing of two innocent children in the bomb attack, and the death of three civilians during the protest had deeply shocked the public.
She alleged that central forces, instead of acting against Kuki armed groups, were targeting unarmed civilians.
Ibemcha further highlighted that a resident of Naranseina injured in the incident remains in critical condition in hospital, leaving behind three young children.
"We are civilians who want peace.
How long will people be made to suffer like fish trapped in a pot?" she questioned, urging authorities to take immediate steps to restore normalcy and ensure justice.
She also criticised the State leadership, alleging that official engagements such as inaugurations were being prioritised over addressing the hardships faced by the people.
"People are living in fear, as if they are alive yet lifeless.
The indigenous communities of the State seek peace and security", she added.
Demonstrators held placards demanding justice for the victims and strict punishment for those responsible.
Meanwhile, similar protests were held at Oinam Keithel, organised jointly by the Oinam Apunba Meira Paibi Lup and Irengbam Apunba Meira Paibi Lup.
A large number of residents from Oinam and Irengbam participated in the demonstration.
Addressing the gathering, a Meira Paibi member, Chongtham Anoubi, alleged that the Government of India was indirectly supporting Kuki militants, leading to repeated targeting of Meitei and Naga communities.
She warned that the continued silence of elected representatives on the issue could have serious consequences.
Anoubi further criticised the State Government, stating that a lack of decisive action against those responsible for the violence and an apparent focus on official engagements would not resolve the crisis.
"Such actions are seen as attempts to divert attention from the real issues.
The people will not remain silent", she asserted.
In another demonstration, residents of Yumnam Khunou gathered at Yumnam Khunou Market Shed, organised by the Yumnam Khunou Welfare Youth Club and Yumnam Khunou Meira Paibi Lup, echoing similar demands for justice and accountability.
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