Protesters resolve to boycott LS election
Source: Chronicle News Service
Thoubal, March 30 2024:
A sit-in protest staged by meira paibi activists of Nongpok Sekmai, Shikhong Khunou and Ukhongsang villages in their respective villages on Friday resolved to boycott the Lok Sabha election until the ongoing conflict is resolved by the central government.
Speaking to media persons in this regard, meira paibi activists stated that since the conflict started 11 months ago, they have been living in constant fear as they are residing near the foothills.
Many have fled to relief camps as their houses were burned down, more than 200 Meeteis have died and around 30 people are still missing.
With the conflict continuing to go on affecting the normal life of people they oppose the conduct of polls in Manipur in the prevailing scenario.
So, they decided to boycott the election to show solidarity with the affected victims, they said.
Meanwhile denouncing the preparation being made for the Lok Sabha election without resolving the conflict in the state that broke out since May 3, Rural United Clubs' Organisation, Lamsang and Social and Economic Development Organisation have urged the people not to take part in the upcoming election as it is untimely.
In separate releases, the two organizations observed that conducting election without resolving the conflict which has claimed lives of many people and rendered thousands of families homeless, forcing them to take shelter in relief camps is illogical.
The preparation being made for the election amidst the present situation shows how government sees its people.
Though they did not have the authority to boycott the election, however they will not participate in the election and will not cast votes in view of the present situation, the two organizations resolved.
All those people who love the land irrespective of community should not took part in the election, they exhorted.