JAC to claim Somorjit's body after CM assurance
Source: Chronicle News Service
Imphal, January 17 2024:
After it was confirmed that 6 Manipur Rifles rifleman Wangkhem Somorjit of Malom Tulihal had been killed in the attack on state forces by Kuki militants at Moreh on Wednesday, a JAC was formed in connection with his death.
Meanwhile, mass protests were witnessed in various places and rallies taken out.
Later, the JAC met the chief minister with several demands.
After an agreement was reached, the JAC decided to claim Somorjit's body on Thursday after conduct of post-mortem examination at RIMS morgue.
Rifleman Somorjit was the only son and youngest of four siblings.
He is survived by his wife and two daughters, studying in Class III and II respectively.
As news of the death of rifleman Somorjit was confirmed on Wednesday morning, a large crowd gathered on Tiddim road and blocked one side of the road at Malom Bazar.
Members of Tuliyaima Women Peace Committee and Youth Welfare Club Malom, who were present amongst the protesting crowd, questioned why the government had not taken up any strict action against Kuki militants who are attacking state security forces with RPG.
Members of Kwakeithel Apunba Meira Paibi Lup also shut down Kwakeithel Bazar and blocked the road in protest.
Later, a public meeting was held in Malom Bazar and the JAC against the Brutal Killing of Wangkhem Somorjit formed.
In the evening, the JAC and the people of Malom took out a rally along Tiddim road but were intercepted at Keishamthong Hodam Leirak Machin by police.
Ten members of the JAC were then allowed to meet the CM.
Meanwhile, the remaining protestors left at Keishamthong Hodam Leirak Machin, moved on till Keishampat Junction and waited for the ten representatives.
Speaking to media persons after meeting the CM, JAC spokesperson Laishram Premchand informed that it was made clear to the CM that they will not claim the body of rifleman Somorjit until the culprits are arrested, additional forces deployed in Moreh to drive out Kuki militants, and remove the inept security advisor.
In response, the CM assured to apprehend the culprits and requested for some time.
He (CM) also stated that efforts are being made to deploy additional forces in Moreh via helicopter or other means.
The CM further said that Somorjit's wife will be provided with a government job, in addition to awarding an ex-gratia and other assistances, as required.
Since the government agreed and assured to fulfil the demands of the JAC, Somorjit's body will be claimed from RIMS morgue on Thursday, Premchand informed.