Bodies oppose conduct of LS election
Source: Chronicle News Service

Imphal, April 04 2024: While stating th at conducting election without resolving the: ethnic conflict in the state since May 3 last year is unreasonable, Singjamei to Lilong Unit ed Clubs' Organisation (SLUCO) and Citizens' Association for Rural Development (CARD) Wabagai resolved not to take part in the upcoming Lok Sabha election.

In separate releases, the two organisations condemned alleged failure of the government to resolve the conflict and restore peace and normalcy in the state.

Stating that it would be better if the election is conducted after restoration of peace, the civil bodies pointed out that several people have died, and many still staying in the relief camps following displacement owing to the conflict.

As such, people should not take part in the election, they reasoned, while reiterating the decision to stay away from the upcoming Lok Sabha election.

Meanwhile, Delhi Meitei Coordinating Committee (DMCC), Representing various Meetei organizations, has reportedly approached the Election (Commission of India (ECI) and the Chief Justice of India (CJI), seeking postponement of the Lok Sabha elections in Manipur c i ting prevailing unrest situation in the state.

In their petition submitted on April 1, DMCC referred to media reports documenting the turmoil, escalating conflict and law enforcement challenges, as some grounds for the proposed postponement.

The petition also highlighted that the ethnic violence in Manipur since May 3 last year, has inflicted extensive physical, psychological, economic and political damage on the populace.

It may be mentioned here that the DMCC petition coincided with a visit by an election commission team to Imphal to evaluate the state's readiness for the Lok Sabha elections.

While senior state officials assured the EC team of their preparedness, the team also conducted held inspections.

According to the DMCC, the ongoing conflict between the Meeteis and the Kuki-Zos has claimed 221 lives thus far, affecting Meeteis, Kukis, and other communities in Manipur adversely.

Set to take place on April 19 and 26, the elections for the Inner Manipur and Outer Manipur Lok Sabha seats have sparked concerns, particularly regarding security in the latter constituency, scheduled for polling on both days.

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