INDIA team urged to collect comprehensive ground reports
Source: Chronicle News Service
Imphal, July 30 2023:
While welcoming the visit of MPs under the opposition bloc INDIA to the state, MLA RK Imo has emphasised the importance of focusing on peace-building efforts and urged the visiting delegates not to engage in political posturing but rather sincerely participate in bringing lasting peace to the region.
In a statement issued by the MLA's PRO, RK Imo said, "We value your presence, but let us focus on finding real solutions to the issues at hand" .
The MLA also urged the delegates to take time to listen to all sides and gather a comprehensive understanding of the ground realities.
He emphasised the need to base their actions and decisions on verified facts rather than relying on mere photo opportunities.
"Paint the real picture, backed by evidence, so that appropriate action can be taken against illegal immigrants and the uninterrupted supply of arms and ammunition," said the MLA.
Disarmament emerged as a key priority in the discussions, the MLA said while stressing that the entire state requires complete disarmament to foster an environment of peace and security.
"Positive and constructive discussions in the Parliament will pave the way for peace to prevail sooner than later," he added.
Furthermore, RK Imo expressed concern over the dissemination of unverified news by certain media houses from outside the state and urged the media fraternity to exercise caution and maintain neutrality while reporting sensitive matters.
Referring to a recent incident reported by TIMES NOW, the MLA stated that the state government possesses a forensic science report regarding the matter, which refutes the claims of wrongdoing.
He appealed to the media not to jump to conclusions without verifying the facts.
Addressing another media report by East Mojo, RK Imo clarified that the attacks near Bishnupur - Churachandpur districts were not carried out by valley armed militias as reported.
Instead, the firing incident involved the so-called Churachandpur village defence force against central and state security forces.
During the unfortunate event, one soldier of the Kumaon Regiment of Indian Army, one jawan of Manipur Police and several others sustained injuries due to the bomb shelling by the so-called village volunteers, he said in the statement.
The MLA also expressed serious concern over possession of explosives by the village defence volunteers, while questioning origin of the explosives.
He urged media houses to fact-check before reporting to maintain accuracy and uphold the principles of responsible journalism.
In conclusion, RK Imo has posed critical questions regarding the sustainability and origins of arms and ammunition being utilised by the so-called defence force.
Expressing deep concern, he questioned how a village defence force or volunteer could sustain a conflict against the Indian Army and state police for three months.
The statement also informed about a representation by some MLAs submitted to the union home minister on July 10 seeking a thorough investigation and appropriate action against illegal foreign forces and insurgent groups* involved in acts of violence and breaking ground rules of SoO agreement.
"We are positive that the Central gov -ernment will take stringent action against these forces, he stated.
RK Imo also reiterated the urgent need for complete disarmament in the state.
He called for the confiscation of all weapons belonging to insurgent,groups and illegal armed foreign forces.
"Silencing the barrel of guns will be crucial in bringing the much-needed peace to the state, " he reiterated.
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