Tension erupts between conflict victims, Moirang AC MLA
Source: The Sangai Express

Moirang, December 26 2023: A scuffle broke out between conflict survivors from Churachandpur taking refuge at various relief camps and Moirang AC MLA Thongam Shanti Singh today when the conflict survivors came to meet the MLA in connection with their demands made to the Government.

Notably the conflict survivors under the aegis of the Churachandpur Meitei Ethnic Clash Victim Committee staged hunger strike at Kha Potshangbam ground and Moirang Konjengbam Leikai near Moirang INA Headquarters today protesting against the Government's failure to fulfil their set of demands by December 25 .

The scuffle broke out when the protestors who are displaced victims from Churachandpur marched towards the Moirang AC MLA office.

Tension erupts between conflict victims, Moirang AC MLA

Tension escalated when the news spread and went viral on social media platforms that a conflict victim was allegedly assaulted by the MLA which enraged the protestors.

Since the situation went beyond the control of Moirang Police OC, additional forces were sent from Bishnupur to bring the situation under control.

Upon receiving the news, a media team rushed to the site and found that the conflict victims were engaged in a tussle with the police at Moirang Philem Leikai Machin along Moirang Kumbi road leading to the MLA office.

Speaking to media persons, a displaced victim from Churachandpur, Oinam Rabi who has been reported to be allegedly assaulted by the MLA said, 'I along with some protestors went to meet the MLA after some police personnel came to the protest site and informed that the MLA invited us to hold a talk at his office' .

'Upon reaching the office, though the MLA did not physically attack me, he dragged me by the collar into his office which is really unfortunate', he said.

Denouncing the incident, Rabi said that such behaviour is uncalled for especially from an elected leader of the people.

Following the incident, conflict victims from Churachandpur taking shelter at Moirang College, Guest House, Pre-fabricated house, Phubala etc came out and gathered near Moirang INA Headquarters stating that they will return to Churachandpur and will not stay at the relief camps.

Later, representatives of the conflict victims went to meet the Chief Minister at 8 pm today after the CM invited them for a meeting to discuss the issue.

The victims including elderly people, women and children are out in the cold ready to spend the night near Moirang INA Headquarters.

One of the victims informed the media persons that they will take a decision once the representatives return from Imphal and until then they will continue to stay at the protest site.

It is worth noting that considering the sensitivity of the matter, the District Magistrate Bishnupur issued an order today shortening the curfew relaxation period till 12.30 pm along Imphal Kumbi road from INA Headquarters to Ibudhou Thangjing Temple except Moirang Bazar.