Imphal, March 13: Attempt to measure areas for further acquisition of land for expansion of Manipur University campus was foiled by a strong protest of the affected land owners today.

Even as the Revenue officials came with security escorts, they could not proceed with the land measurement because of the vehement protest raised by the affected land owners.

On the other hand, protest agitation was launched at Ningombam and Malom against the Government's plan to acquire more areas for expansion of the Imphal airport premises.

On receiving information that Revenue officials were coming with security personnel to measure land that would be acquired for expansion of MU campus, a large number of people belonging to Langthabal Chingkha and Chingthak, Langthabal Khunjao, Khoupum, Mantrikhong and Ayokpa assembled and blocked all the entry points to these villages using boulders, phaneks, broom sticks etc.

Other vehicles were also prevented to enter and exit through these points.

Consequent upon the strong protest of the people, the Revenue officials turned back without undertaking any land measurement.

But it is likely that the Revenue Department may fix some other day later to measure the land that would be acquired for expansion of MU campus.

On the other hand, a large number of women who were protesting against acquisition of land for Tulihal Airport were dispersed by the police.

On the same issue, a protest rally was also taken out by the people of Malom.

However, the protesters were heading towards the gate of Tulihal Airport but they were blocked on the way and forced to turn back by police.

They also shouted slogans against acquisition of more land for Imphal Airport expansion.

Yet, despite the announcement of the JAC to seal Imphal airport for three days starting from yesterday, there has been no disturbance to normal flight service.

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