Sack killer cops, release VVs: COCOMI Women Wing
Source: Chronicle News Service

Imphal, December 16 2024: Demanding dismissal from service police personnel involved in the shooting and killing of village volunteer Laishram Prem (18) at Salungpham on December 14 within 24 hours, the Coordinating Committee on Manipur Integrity (COCOMI) Women Wing also called for unconditional release of all six arrested volunteers.

Briefing the media at COCOMI's Lamphel office on Monday, Women Wing convenor Leirik Leima reminded all concerned that the village volunteers have been protecting the land since the conflict broke out last year.

Contrary to the police generally hesitating to counter attacks launched by Kuki militants citing absence of order from the higher-ups consequently exposing Meetei villagers settling in the foothills to serious risks, it is the village volunteers who have been shouldering the responsibility to protect life and properties of the villagers for almost two years now, she said.

Amidst numerous instances of the police lacking commitment to tackle the Kuki militants, on December 14, 18-year old villager volunteer Laishram Prem was shot dead by police at Salungpham in an alleged fake encounter and arrested six other village volunteers, she said, demanding that the police personnel who shot Prem dead be terminated from service within 24 hours.

Leima also demanded the unconditional release of the six arrested village volunteers within 24 hours and called for thorough investigation into Prem's killing, while ensuring strict punishment is awarded to all those involved.

She further warned that intense protests would be launched against the government if no action is taken within the specified time.

Additionally, she indicated that similar agitations would be launched if any more village volunteers are arrested or harmed.

Comment