Asem Bhakta, Special Correspondent North East
Imphal: Oinam Romen, a notable political activist from the Singjamei Assembly Constituency, visited Shija Hospitals and Research Institute to offer support to Elangbam Musuk, a reporter for Impact TV who was injured while covering the recent conflict in Manipur. Romen commended Elangbam Musuk for his brave journalism during the ongoing crisis and provided him with financial assistance. Elangbam Musuk sustained injuries while reporting on a drone bombing attack by Kuki militants on civilian villagers in Koutruk, located in the Kangchup region of Imphal West District. The attack, which occurred last Sunday afternoon, resulted in the deaths of two people, including a woman, and left several others injured.
During his visit, political activist Romen strongly condemned the use of drones for attacking civilians, a tactic typically associated with international warfare rather than domestic conflicts. He criticized the escalation of violence and called for the perpetrators to be held accountable under the law.
Political activist Romen urged the state government to take immediate and decisive action against the Kuki militants. He suggested that the Chief Minister of Manipur should personally intervene to formulate a plan of action.
Political activist Romen further expressed concerns about the apparent inability of central security forces to address the threat posed by the militants targeting the Meetei community. He emphasized that the state’s own security forces must be prepared to handle any arising contingencies effectively.
Additionally, political activist Romen criticized the disparity in law enforcement during recent events. He noted that while tear gas was heavily used against internally displaced persons during a peaceful rally in the valley areas, no such measures were taken during a similar rally organized by the Kuki community in the hills. Political activist Romen questioned the consistency of law enforcement and expressed disappointment that the state authorities seemed more focused on condemning the Kuki militants rather than taking concrete steps to manage the situation.
Political activist Romen highlighted the unfortunate state of affairs and called for more balanced and effective measures to address the ongoing conflict.
