CSOs condemn arrests, suppression of public voice
Source: Chronicle News Service

Imphal, June 08 2025: Five prominent civil society organisations have expressed serious concern over the recent arrests of Arambai Tenggol members, warning that the move appears to be part of a broader agenda to suppress the voice of the people rather than restore peace in the state.

In a joint statement issued on Sunday, All Manipur United Clubs' Organisation (AMUCO), Poirei Leimarol Meira Paibi Apunba Manipur, All Manipur Women's Voluntary Association (AMAWOVA), Committee on Human Rights (COHR), and Manipuri Students' Federation (MSF) criticised the arrest of an Arambai Tenggol leader on Saturday, calling it a development that validates suspicions of targeted suppression.

CSOs condemn arrests, suppression of public voice

The organisations noted that Arambai Tenggol members had recently played an active role in flood rescue operations and said that it was natural for their supporters to erupt in protest over the arrest of a leader.

They alleged that the government might be provoking such reactions to justify further use of force and intimidation against the people.

The joint statement also condemned excessive use of force by security personnel during Saturday's protest, where both protesters and journalists were assaulted.

The groups described the action as "security excesses" and warned that such crackdowns were only heightening fear and uncertainty among citizens already reeling from the impact of flood crisis and the two-year old conflict.

CSOs condemn arrests, suppression of public voice

The statement further alleged that While the Centre is holding talks regarding the extension of.

the Suspension of Operation (SoO) agreement with Kuki armed groups, the recent actions in the state seem intended to divert attention from the talks by silencing public dissent.

Calling for unity, the organ isations urged the people of the State to remain vigilant and stand together against what they termed as injustice and the biased attitude of the Government of India.

They also appealed to senior state officials to reconsider their roles and responsibilities, urging them to act as representatives of the people ratherthan instruments of suppression.