INDIA Bloc-Manipur plans sit-in in Delhi
Source: Chronicle News Service

Imphal, November 25 2024: INDIA Bloc-Manipur has announced a national-level sit-in protest demonstration in New Delhi in the ensuing winter session of Parliament to highlight the ongoing crisis in the state, The decision was made during a meeting held on Sunday at Congress Bhawan, here, attended by representatives of the bloc's constituent parties, including AAP, AIFB, AITC, CPI, CPI (M), INC, NCP (SP), RSP, and Shiv Sena (UBT) .

According to a press release issued in this regard by INDIA Bloc Manipur convenor Ksh Shanta, the meeting discussed the aftermath of the May 3,2023 ethnic violence, including the recent killing of children, women, and elderly persons including an 8-month-old infant in Jiribam by armed groups acting under the guise of attacks and counterattacks.

It also discussed the attacks on the properties of select MLAs, allegedly orchestrated by vested interest groups.

Condemning the Jiribam killings, the INDIA Bloc meeting unanimously demanded immediate arrest and punishment of the culprits under relevant laws.

The bloc also voiced strong opposition to the recent re-imposition of AFSPA in areas under the jurisdiction of six police stations, calling it as 'detrimental to the people of Manipur'.

The members also demanded withdrawal of the black law, citing earlier removal under the leadership of former chief minister Okram Ibobi.

In addition, the INDIA Bloc condemned the attacks on properties of MLAs, purportedly to pressure them following the Jiribam incident, and called for an inquiry to identify and prosecute the offenders.

"The protest in Delhi is aimed at drawing national attention to the Manipur issue.

A letter regarding the planned demonstration was sent to the national leadership of the bloc's constituent parties to seek their support and participation," the statement said.

The bloc also emphasised the need for an extra-parliamentary movement to address the deteriorating situation in the state and seek justice for the victims of violence.

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