Bandh derails normal life, CSOs demand duo's release
Source: Chronicle News Service

Imphal, October 02 2024: Normal life in the state, especially in Thoubal district, was affected for the second consecutive day even as the 48-hour bandh imposed since Tuesday by the JAC formed against the abduction of two youths of Thoubal district by Kuki militants.

The bandh, initially enforced in Thoubal district was declared as a 24-hour state-wide agitation from Wednesday morning.

Barring reports of bandh supporters blocking major roads, there is no major unwanted incidents related to the bandh called to demand safe release of the two youths from Thoubal Leisangthem and Khekman.

Meanwhile, a public meeting organised by the JAC at Thoubal Melaground community hall on Wednesday and attended by representatives of various state level civil society organisations, resolved to demand the government to secure the safe release of two youths in custody of armed Kuki militants.

The CSO members expressed concern that despite six days of the abduction, central and state governments are yet to provide any positive response.

Whole recalling numerous cases of either abducted persons murdered or their whereabouts remaining unknown till date, the CSO likened inaction by the governments to cowardice and inaptitude, while reiterating that the two youths should be safely handed over to the public at the earliest.

The 24-hour state-wide general strike since 3 am Wednesday was also marked by mass sit-in protests at different locations and closure of major markets and shops.

In Thoubal district, people in large number squatted and block the National Highway near Thoubal Mela Ground.

Tree trunks were laid across the road apart from road blocks in other parts of the district.

In Imphal West, Imphal East, Kakching and Bishnupur districts, major markets ceased trade activities and road blocks were set up in response to the agitation call.

Meanwhile, sit-in protests were staged on Wednesday demanding the government to secure the release of Oinam Thoithoi and Thokchom Thoithoiba, who have been held hostage by Kuki terrorists, and safely hand them over to the mothers.

In Kakching district, Meira Paibi members, youths, clubs and the people of Pangantabi staged protest by blocking the Indo-Burma Road and demanding the release of the two youths, and cautioning that the government would be held responsible in case the abducted youths face unwanted consequences.

The protestors also shouted slogans condemning the abduction of innocent civilians, removal of incompetent DGP and the government to save the two.

Similar sit-in protests were also staged in Imphal East and Thoubal districts.

Mention may be made that the shutdown was called to demand release of the two youths reportedly held captive in a Kangpokpi district area.

Three youths - Ningombam Johnson Singh, Oinam Thoithoi Singh and Thokchom Thoithoiba Singh - were abducted by Kuki militants in Kangpokpi district on September 27 .

The trio, all hailing from Thoubal district, had gone to the New Keithelmanbi area in Imphal West district for the SSC GD recruitment test for central forces.

However, they lost their way and strayed into Kangpokpi from where they were abducted by armed men.

One of the three youths, Ningombam Johnson was rescued by the Indian Army the same day while the other two are still missing.

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