Kuki-Zo bodies renew call for AFSPA in valley
Source: Chronicle News Service

Kangpokpi, May 09 2024: Committee on Tribal Unity (CoTU), Sadar Hills and Thadou Youth Association (TYA), Sadar Hills have voiced concern over the safety of central security forces in Manipur in the aftermath of the abduction of a CRPF trooper on Wednesday morning along NH 2 .

CoTU drew the attention of the central government, especially the Union Home Ministry, to the safety of the central security forces, particularly the Central Reserve Police Forces (CRPF), from the clutches of 'secessionist' elements in Manipur.

The Committee underscored the gravity of the situation, condemning the incumbent chief minister, N Biren Singh and his allies for their alleged attempt to absolve the state and VBIG from culpability in the ambush of CRPF forces at Naranseina last month.

"This brazen manoeuvre is not only deeply concerning but also highlights severe lapses in security protocols, warranting immediate attention and action," it said.

CoTU also claimed that the recent abduction of CRPF personnel, Lensat Sitlhou at Shan-tipur in the Nepali-dominated Kanglatongbi area on Wednesday, constitutes a serious violation of the status quo in buffer zones, as established along the geographical divide.

"Hence, to uphold their efficiency, the central security forces must be shielded from any political interference by the state," it demanded.

While emphasising the need to recover the arms looted from the state's armoury, CoTU stated that the central security forces should be endowed with increased authority through the immediate imposition of the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA), 1958 in all 19 police stations within greater Imphal, to thwart potential threats.

Similarly, TYA expressed grave concern regarding the safety of central forces amid the ongoing crisis in Manipur while contending that security personnel have been victimised through political manipulation.

Citing recent incidents, such as the attack on CRPF personnel at Naranseina, Bishnupur on April 27, which resulted in casualties and injuries, the TYA highlighted the precarious situation faced by security personnel.

It also stated that the distressing development on Wednesday, where a CRPF jawan was abducted at Shantipur, further underscored the risks faced by security forces, while mentioning that the victim had reportedly been subjected to torture and sustained critical injuries, prompting urgent medical attention.

TYA also emphasised that such targeted attacks not only jeopardise the safety of security personnel but also undermine law and Order, paving the way for separatist agendas.

"If the guardians of the masses, those men in uniform, are not secure, it becomes a distant hope for civilians to experience peace and harmony," it said.

While vehemently condemning the prolonged ethnic-based political crisis in Manipur, TYA expressed dismay over the lack of concrete action from the central government to address the escalating violence in the state.

"The crisis in Manipur is viewed as one of the most severe globally and has garnered condemnation from numerous organisations.

Yet, it remains unresolved and unaddressed, as there seems to be no guiding force to lead us out of this turmoil".

"With the crisis entering its second year without significant progress, concerns mount over the repercussions for civilian safety and the overall democratic fabric of the region," it further conveyed.

Calling upon the centre to prioritise resolving the crisis, TYA stressed on the urgent need for the government tp implement all necessary measures to tackle the enduring division caused by ethnic-based political crises as such divisions are deemed unwarranted and inconsequential in a diverse nation like India.

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