Living on the edge of quit notice...KCP-MC threat grips Mapao Khullen
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, September 04, 2010: Following the threats from the KCP-MC and the ultimatum to vacate their village, people of Mapao Khullen are in a state of anxiety and fear.

The village located under Saikul Block of Senapati district is inhabited by around 300 people.

The tense situation prevailing in the village, following the assault of villagers including the Pastor and the reported ultimatum served by KCP-MC to leave the village within five days came to light through the condemnation issued by the NPMHR.

To take stock of the situation team led by UCM vice-president Y Nabachandra together with the media visited the village today.

Talking to the visiting team, village head man M Khawangpam said that the villagers have been caught in a frightening situation.

Whereas the womenfolk have suggested of talking shelter in some other place, the villagers have been contemplating on guarding the village round the clock by forgoing the night's sleep.

Even as the villagers are caught in an uneasy situation, no responsible Govt representative has visited the village except representatives of civil organisations.

Civil society members interacting with the locals of Mapao Khullen

Saying that the ultimatum served by KCP-MC expires tomorrow, the head man conveyed that the villagers would spend the day praying.

Four students and a teacher staying at a boarding have left the village in view of the threats from the particular UG group.

Taking serious note of the unwanted development, the UCM vice-president condemned the assault on Mapao Khullen villagers.

He also suggested that the threats made to the villagers should be withdrawn.

Meanwhile, HERICOUN president RR Chothe has condemned the incident saying that the assault on Mapao Khullen villagers including the local Pastor was a threat to Christians of Manipur.

Again, the ultimatum to leave the village was challenge to all the hill people, Chothe said during a press meet organised by the All Manipur Christian Organisation today.

Enquiring the identity of the particular UG group, Chothe said that Mapao Khullen villagers would like to settle the issue through open dialogue.

He also sought immediate attention of the State Home Minister into the issue.

Taking part in the press meet, Mapao Khullen village chairman L Zimik said that they were threatened with harsh words to vacate the village within five days counting from August 5.Cadres of the UG group who were well equipped entered the village and thrashed 30 villagers.

They also accused the villagers of informing security forces about presence of UG cadres in the areas every time security forces came to the village, Zimik conveyed.

Saying that the villagers would like to set straight all misunderstandings if there is any, Zimik appealed to the Government to protect the village.

The NPMHR had also condemned the incident.