Transgender activist Malem Thongam re-arrested
Source: Chronicle News Service
Imphal, March 23 2024:
Transgender activist Malem Thongam, who has been protesting against the failure of the BJP-led government to end the ethnic conflict since February 22, was re-arrested as he attempted to demonstrate in front of BJP state office gate at Nityaipat Chuthek, here, on Saturday.
Around 3.30 pm, Malem held a banner and continued his hunger strike near the gate of BJP office.
Police personnel deployed in the area snatched the banner from him.
Yet, Malem continued his protest only to be arrested.
Speaking to media persons, Malem reminded that he began hunger strike denouncing the failure of the government to end the conflict and restore normalcy in the state.
After his previous arrest, he was given treatment at JNIMS hospital.
On Saturday morning, he was discharged from the hospital after refusing treatment and resumed the hunger strike from Saturday evening.
Despite having powerful governments both at the centre and in the state, the conflict could not be ended making the people to suffer and stay in relief camps.
Amidst such situation, the government plans to conduct election as if nothing has happened, he rued, while condemning the silence of the government when displaced people appealed for resettlement.
Malem also made it clear that he will continue his protest until the demand for resolution of the conflict and restoration of peace is fulfilled.