Imphal, April 17: The second march of the Manipur Forward Youth Front (MAFYF) christened Manipur Youth March 2008 was flagged off by president of the United People's Front Th Mangi from Sekmai today.

The march being participated by hundreds of youths is being undertaken under various slogans such as "Bring political solution to the insurgency issue of Manipur", "Stop atrocities of security forces", "Enforce international humanitarian laws in Manipur and the North East region", "Prohibit influx of outsiders" and "Check smuggling of intoxicating drugs into Manipur".

Around 500 youths are participating in the 11 day long march.

The march would cover Imphal West, Bishnupur, Churachandpur, Thoubal, Chandel, Moreh, Kwatha and some villages of Ukhrul district.

Later, the marchers will pass through Imphal East on their return journey to the State capital.

Speaking to reporters about the slogans of the march, MAFYF president Sapamcha Kangleipal observed that since October 15, 1949 when the erstwhile independent kingdom of Manipur was merged into the Indian Union, the people of Manipur have been living in a restless and insecure situation.

Though originally formulated and imposed to suppress insurgency movement, the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act 1958 has become an instrument of harassing and victimising innocent civilians, Kangleipal alleged.

He maintained that the State should play a proactive role in enforcing international humanitarian laws in the State which has become a host to armed conflict situation.

Taking into account of all these points, MAFYF chose the slogans of the march which is a way of urging upon the Government to fulfil the demands.

Co-ordinator of the National Alliance for People's Movement Faizal Khan which is also taking part in the march observed that whether it is Manipur or Jammu and Kashmir, there cannot be peace when there is no justice.

A late report informed that the marchers have reached Konthoujam where they would put up the night.

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