Two granted bail in UG link case
Source: Chronicle News Service

Imphal, April 03 2025: Special Judge (NIA), Imphal East, has granted bail to Thangjam Surankumar Singh and Chingakham Langol Singh, who were arrested on March 26 from Dingku Road on the charge of being active cadres of the proscribed RPF/PLA .

The court allowed their release on furnishing a PR bond of Rs 1,00,000 each and surety of the same amount.

The prosecution alleged that Surankumar had been a member of RPF/PLA since 2006 but later deserted the outfit and was imprisoned in Manipur Central Jail, Sajiwa, in 2019 .

After serving his sentence, he distanced himself from militancy.

However, in February 2025, he allegedly received a call from an individual identified as 'Lt Col' Jibon, who sought his assistance in relaying messages.

The prosecution claimed that Surankumar was not involved in any other activities beyond message transmission.

The second accused, Langol, was reportedly a village volunteer during the ethnic clashes and later came into contact with Surankumar.

According to the prosecution, in December 2024, Surankumar invited Langol to assist in a task given by Jibon.

Since February 2025, the prosecution alleged, Langol had been involved in activities deemed prejudicial.

During the hearing, the defence argued that the accused had no links with any unlawful organisations.

The counsel stated that Surankumar is a piggery farmer and the sole breadwinner of his family, also highlighting his knee ligament injury.

Langol, a daily wager, was married on December 25, 2024, making it improbable for him to have joined PLA a day earlier.

The court noted that while the allegations against the accused involved links to PLA and fundraising activities, no substantial evidence had been gathered to confirm these claims.

Additionally, the investigation officer stated that there was no specific requirement for judicial custody, and charges of extortion could not be verified.

Considering these factors, the court found sufficient grounds to grant bail to the accused.

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