Langsai Thouna opposes demand for removal CDOs from Moreh
Source: Chronicle News Service

Kakching, July 16 2023: Langsai Thouna strongly opposed the demand for removing Manipur police commandos from Moreh, raised by certain Kuki organisations, and also condemned the police complaint filed by Assam Rifles against it.

During a press conference held at its office at Kakching Lamkhai, Langsai Thouna convenor, Rajiv Kshetri stated that around 4000 Kuki refugees, who arrived from Myanmar a few years ago, have settled in Moreh town.

Today, they are demanding the removal of commandos and opposing implementation of the NRC and demand for ST status for Meeteis, while insisting on separate administration for Kukis.

During a protest on July 14, the Kuki people surrounded and held hostage Manipur police commandos stationed in Moreh, he alleged and strongly condemned the inaction of central security forces to disperse the protestors during the incident.

He asserted that police commandos should not be withdrawn from Moreh under any circumstances.

In response to the May 28 attack in Serou, Sugnu, and Napat areas, the people of Kakching district have been blocking the movement of Assam Rifles due to concerns about biased behaviour.

They have been checking civilian vehicles to prevent any potential violence by intercepting transportation of arms and ammunition.

However, they have allowed free passage to Assam Rifles twice a week for transportation of ration, other essential commodities, and movement of personnel.

Amid such positive gesture, a 407 truck with paper label of BSF was intercepted by the public while transporting food items from Imphal towards Moreh.

The driver stated that the materials were loaded from Khuman Lampak and were intended for delivery at Pallel.

Subsequently, a team of 21 Assam Rifles under 26 Sector, stationed at Modi village Chandel, claimed that some of the food items were meant for them and took possession of them.

A BSF team also arrived but left after confirming that the items did not belong to them.

The driver and the two helpers tried to contact the provided phone number, but it was switched off.

Unable to identify the owner, the driver returned after un loading the food items to the custody of the public.

Later, Langsai Thouna took charge of the items, which were then taken by local Meira Paibi for distribution to relief camps.

Shortly after the incident, a man claiming to be a major from 5 Assam Rifles stationed at Moreh contacted them, claiming ownership of the food items.

They informed him that local women had already distributed the items as they couldn't find the owner.

However, after a few days, Assam Rifles filed a police complaint against two members of Langsai Thouna Kakching and two women leaders, accusing them of looting, he said.

On the other hand, he said, in order to avoid misunderstandings with Naga people during vehicle checks, the people of Kakching district are maintaining regular communication with Naga CSOs in Chandel, such as CNPO and Japhou Bazar Authority.

Langsai Thouna Kakching co-convenors Naoremcha Rajen and Dr Naorem Bobo were also present at the press meet.

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