Imphal:
Oceans of indigenous people from the hills and valley, including Meitei, Naga and Meitei Pangal communities, took to the streets across Manipur today demanding immediate abrogation of the Suspension of Operations (SoO) agreement with Kuki armed groups, removal of Assam Rifles and an end to the prolonged violence.
In Imphal, thousands assembled at Tiddim Ground, Kwakeithel and marched through Wahengbam Leikai, Keishampat, Nagamapal and Thangmeiband before culminating at THAU Ground, where a six-point resolution was unanimously adopted.
The rally was jointly organised by COCOMI and various Naga civil society organisations including JTC-M, NHACM, FNCC, NPU Imphal and Inpui Naga Union.
The six-point resolution demanded:
1. End to alleged proxy warfare and immediate abrogation of SoO agreement, dismantling of SoO camps and verification of weapons.
2. Immediate, safe and dignified resettlement of all IDPs with security and rehabilitation of livelihoods.
3. Withdrawal of Assam Rifles from border and conflict-affected areas and deployment of a neutral security force, with effective border management.
4. Implementation of NRC with 1951 as base year through a transparent process, before Census.
5. Removal of Deputy Chief Minister Nemcha Kipgen from the Cabinet, failing which the present government should resign.
6. Time-bound action by State and Central governments for lasting peace based on justice and accountability.
Addressing the gathering, COCOMI convenor YK Dhiren demanded resignation of the present government for failing to protect lives and properties, and alleged bias in the functioning of Assam Rifles. Former convenor Khuraijam Athouba said indigenous communities have endured more than three years of suffering and called the rally a final appeal, warning of extreme steps if demands are not fulfilled.
In Senapati, a rally organised by the Senapati District Apex Body under UNC at Traffic Point echoed the same demands. NPO, SDSA and SDWA jointly organised the demonstration, while UNC and ANSAM also held simultaneous sit-in protests at various Naga district headquarters from 11 am.
Placards reading “Abrogate SoO” and “We Want Peace, Not Proxy War” were displayed as protesters reiterated demands for peace, resettlement of displaced families and protection of indigenous rights.
