Human chains ring out demand for NRC
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, May 31 2023: Thousands of people of different communities formed human chains in different parts of the valley districts with the common demand to implement the National Register of Citizens (NRC) and safeguard the unity and integrity of the State, today.

Human chains were formed along Kangabam Leikai to Konjeng Hazari Leikai, Uripok to Naoremthong stretches and Tiddim Road among others.

Reportedly, women in thousands belonging to Meiteis, Chirus, Kabuis and Chothes stood in line along Tiddim Road from Khoirakpan to Thinungei in Bishnupur district and many other places and raised slogans to implement NRC in Manipur, protect Manipur and, abrogate SoO pact, to restore normalcy at the earliest.

The protesters also held placards which read "We want normal life", "Go back illegal immigrants', 'Stop narco terrorism" etc.

Human chains ring out demand for NRC

Speaking to media persons, a Chothe woman said that the restive situation in Manipur has taken a toll on every community.

Saying that the difficulty being faced by every Manipuri, especially students, is more profound as Manipur was under Covid induced lockdown for a prolonged period, she appealed to the Government to restore normalcy at the earliest.

She also appealed to the 10 Chin-Kuki MLAs to drop their demand to establish a separate administration in the larger interest of the State's integrity.

At Uripok, one Phurailatpam Paneshori said that the priority of the Government must be on finding a solution for the conflict and lifting the burden of the common people.

Saying that SoO agreement between the Government and the Kuki militant groups must not cover all of Manipur, she said that people of the State will never accept any attempts to disintegrate the State.

She further stated the 50 MLAs who are not part of the demand must not politicise the issue but work collectively to safeguard Manipur.

"When a house catches fire, the first thing to do is to douse it as the source can be traced later," she said.

A sit in protest was also staged at Palace Compound with the participation of Meiteis, Kabuis, Meetei Pangals and non Manipuris, today.

The protesters displayed placards with inscriptions - "Keep the territorial integrity of Manipur intact", "Stop attacking civilians", "Suspend SoO pact" and "implement NRC" .

Speaking to media persons, a woman Y Ibeyaima asked whether giving monetary assistance and giving Government jobs to the victims of the ethnic conflict are the solution.

"Who will take your Rs 10 lakh compensation and Government jobs when there is no Manipur," she asked.

Saying that no amount can buy the lives given up for the sake of unity and integrity of the State , she appealed to the 50 MLAs to understand the sentiment of the people and protect lives.